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Biology Quote by Phillip E. Johnson

“A second point that caught my attention was that the very persons who insist upon keeping religion and science separate are eager to use their science as a basis for pronouncements about religion. The literature of Darwinism is full of anti-theistic conclusions, such as that the universe was not…” quote by Phillip E. Johnson
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““A second point that caught my attention was that the very persons who insist upon keeping religion and science separate are eager to use their science as a basis for pronouncements about religion. The literature of Darwinism is full of anti-theistic conclusions, such as that the universe was not designed and has no purpose, and that we humans are the product of blind natural processes that care nothing about us. What is more, these statements are not presented as personal opinions but as the logical implications of evolutionary science. Another factor that makes evolutionary science seem a lot like religion is the evident zeal of Darwinists to evangelize the world, by insisting that even non-scientists accept the truth of their theory as a matter of moral obligation. Richard Dawkins, an Oxford Zoologist who is one of the most influential figures in evolutionary science, is unabashedly explicit about the religious side of Darwinism. his 1986 book The Blind Watchmaker is at one level about biology, but at a more fundamental level it is a sustained argument for atheism. According to Dawkins, "Darwin made it possible to be an intellectually fulfilled atheist." When he contemplates the perfidy of those who refuse to believe, Dawkins can scarcely restrain his fury. "It is absolutely safe to say that, if you meet somebody who claims not to believe in evolution, that person is ignorant, stupid or insane (or wicked, but I'd rather not consider that)." Dawkins went to explain, by the way, that what he dislikes particularly about creationists is that they are intolerant.””

Phillip E. Johnson

About This Quote

Source Book: Darwin on Trial by Phillip E. Johnson, 1991

The author warns that some scientists treat evolutionary theory as a quasi‑religion, using it to make moral judgments and dismiss dissent as ignorance or irrationality.

In simple terms: Scientists sometimes present evolution as a belief system that must be accepted.

Key Takeaway

Question claims presented as scientific fact.

Themes

science religion dogma atheism communication

Mood

skeptical critical analytical

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • academic debates
  • public policy discussions
  • education curricula
  • media commentary
  • interfaith dialogues

Key Concepts

epistemology science communication ideology faith

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we separate empirical evidence from moral persuasion?
  • What responsibilities do scientists have when discussing societal implications?
A Different Perspective

Critics argue the analogy overstates the zeal of scientists and ignores legitimate scientific discourse.

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