This much I can say with definiteness - namely, that there is no scientific basis for the denial of religion - nor is there in my judgment any excuse for a conflict between science and religion, for their fields are entirely different. Men who know very little of science and men who know very little of religion do indeed get to quarreling, and the onlookers imagine that there is a conflict between science and religion, whereas the conflict is only between two different species of ignorance.
Interpretation
Science and religion serve different purposes and should not conflict with each other.
In this quote, Robert Andrews Millikan highlights the distinction between the realms of science and religion, arguing that each holds its own validity without necessarily opposing one another. He suggests that conflicts often arise from ignorance on both sides, as those lacking in knowledge of either subject may misunderstand or misrepresent their respective principles, leading to unnecessary disputes.
In practice
During a debate on the role of science in society, one might quote Millikan to emphasize that misunderstandings drive conflicts.
Indeed, I suspect that the changes that have taken place during the last century in the average man's fundamental beliefs, in his philosophy, in his conception of religion, in his whole world outlook, are greater than the changes that occurred during the preceding four thousand years all put together.
Fullness of knowledge always means some understanding of the depths of our ignorance; and that is always conducive to humility and reverence.
Cultivate the habit of attention and try to gain opportunities to hear wise men and women talk. Indifference and inattention are the two most dangerous monsters that you ever meet. Interest and attention will insure to you an education.
The cheapness of wine seems to be a cause, not of drunkenness, but of sobriety. ...People are seldom guilty of excess in what is their daily fare... On the contrary, in the countries which, either from excessive heat or cold, produce no grapes, and where wine consequently is dear and a rarity, drunkenness is a common vice.
The moment I have realized God sitting in the temple of every human body, the moment I stand in reverence before every human being and see God in him - that moment I am free from bondage, everything that binds vanishes, and I am free.
I am God's vessel. But my greatest pain in life is that I will never be able to see myself perform live.
races condemned to 100 years of solitude did not have a second opportunity on earth.
But before we die, how shall we live? I say with hope and dignity; and if premature death is the result, that death has a meaning reactionary suicide can never have. It is the price of self-respect.
Any pleasure that does no harm to other people is to be valued.
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