Creating Quote by Phillip E. Johnson
“Science...has become identified with a philosophy known as materialism or scientific naturalism. This philosophy insists that nature is all there is, or at least the only thing about which we can have any knowledge. It follows that nature had to do its own creating, and that the means of creation must have included any role for God.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Darwin on Trial, Phillip E. Johnson, 1991
The quote argues that modern science adopts a materialist view that excludes any divine agency in creation.
In simple terms: Science is presented as purely materialist, leaving no room for God.
Key Takeaway
Recognize philosophical assumptions in scientific discourse.
Themes
philosophy
science
theology
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
controversial
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- public policy
- education curricula
- media commentary
Key Concepts
materialism
naturalism
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does materialism shape scientific inquiry?
- Can science address questions of purpose?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook non‑material explanations that some find meaningful.
![“Scientific naturalism is a story that reduces reality to physical particles and impersonal laws, [and] portrays life as a meaningless competition among organisms that exist only to survive and reproduce.” quote by Philip Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bb6/philip-johnson-10392_biology_scientific-naturalism-is-a-story-that-re_284275.jpg)
