Ancient Quote by Steven Weinberg
““There are those whose views about religion are not very different from my own, but who nevertheless feel that we should try to damp down the conflict, that we should compromise it. … I respect their views and I understand their motives, and I don't condemn them, but I'm not having it. To me, the conflict between science and religion is more important than these issues of science education or even environmentalism. I think the world needs to wake up from its long nightmare of religious belief; and anything that we scientists can do to weaken the hold of religion should be done, and may in fact be our greatest contribution to civilization.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Public Lecture on Science and Religion, 2015
The speaker argues that the conflict between science and religion is a greater threat than specific scientific issues, urging scientists to actively diminish religious influence for societal progress.
In simple terms: Science-religion conflict is seen as a major problem; scientists should fight it.
Key Takeaway
Scientists should work to reduce religious influence.
Themes
science
religion
conflict
progress
education
civilization
Mood
concerned
determined
optimistic
Type
philosophical
political
motivational
When to use this quote
- public discourse
- education policy
- environmental debates
- scientific funding
- civil society
Key Concepts
secularism
public policy
intellectual freedom
Questions to Reflect On
- Can science and religion coexist peacefully?
- What are the risks of aggressive secularism?
A Different Perspective
The stance may overlook the value of pluralism and dialogue, risking alienation.
