science and religion

• the 4 features of science are: empirical, open knowledge, cumulative and objective
• 4 key features of religion: the supernatural, closed knowledge, absolute knowledge and subjective
• 1. the empirical vs the supernatural

  Science is concerned with the physical world and knowledge is gained through hypothesis and experimentation. Religion is concerned with the spiritual world; it cannot be observed or measured and belief in God is a matter of faith.
• 2. open vs closed systems

  Science is an open belief system; data collected can be criticised and open to testing ensuring it is valid. Religions tend to have closed systems; knowledge is regarded as sacred and should be accepted not challenged.
• 3. evolving vs absolute knowledge

  science is cumulative and evolves through a process. Religion is based firmly on religious texts of absolute truth; it is not open to change or growth.
• 4. objectivity vs subjectivity

  In science, subjective, personal feelings should be kept out; beliefs should not be influenced by opinions or biases. Religion is a matter of personal faith and spiritual experience.