"Science Without Religion Is Blind"

by George Denise, Scoutmaster

Sometimes, young people begin questioning God. Is there a God? What is the nature of God? Why are we here? What is the meaning of life?

These are questions most thinking people ask. Often, as we begin to study science and the scientific method, we find it at odds with some of our earlier teachings. Religious accounts of creation are resonant and moving stories, and you believe them because you have faith.

Scientific accounts of creation include how the universe was formed, how life began, how species evolve, how humans grow from the union of two cells. Science backs its answers with evidence. You don't need faith to believe.

You may or may not believe religion's account of creation. But there are many questions science can't answer either. Even how evolution takes place is hotly debated among scientists. And science doesn’t even try to answer the question "Why?" The concern of science is attempting to determine "How?"

Perhaps that is why a majority of scientists describe themselves as religious and state that they believe in God. One scientist wrote: "At our best, we think seriously about the purpose and meaning of life... science provides no guidance (here) and we each have to find our own path. Religious thought provides that."

Albert Einstein, one of the greatest scientific minds that ever existed, stated: "A legitimate conflict between science and religion cannot exist. Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind."

Some questions, the simple, concrete ones, science can often answer. Other questions, the ones about how best to live one's life, and how to find meaning in life, only religion can answer.

I believe there is a purpose and meaning in life. I believe there is a God. I try to live my life according to the Cub Scout Motto, "Do Your Best," The Scout Oath, and The Scout Law.

The twelfth Scout Law states, "A Scout is Reverent." Are you?

Thank you for listening. God be with you.

Note: Much of this Minute was taken verbatim from an article by Ann Finkbeiner writing in The Forum in USA Today, Wednesday, May 28, 1997.