Argument Quote by Huston Smith
“As the twentieth century began, science equaled a materialistic worldview. As the twenty-first century began, the worldview of science, at least of physics and astronomy, may have traded place with that of religion. Consider Einstein's famous equation E = mc2. Nothing of matter dies but continues on in another form, elsewhere. The church divines and theologians for two thousand years have devised arguments and "proofs" of immortality but nothing equal to this.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The World's Religions, Huston Smith, 1991
Science and religion have shifted roles over centuries, with modern physics suggesting continuity beyond physical death, challenging traditional religious claims of immortality.
In simple terms: Science now hints at continuity after death, questioning old religious proofs.
Reconsider how we view life and afterlife.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal loss
- ethical debates
- public discourse
- education
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does modern physics affect your belief in an afterlife?
- Can science and faith coexist without conflict?
Religious traditions still offer comfort and meaning beyond empirical evidence.