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.
If a jury have not the right to judge between the government and those who disobey its laws, and resist its oppressions, the government is absolute, and the people, legally speaking, are slaves.
Understanding the simple fact that morality differs around the world, and even within societies, is the first step toward understanding your righteous mind.
Which is worse, Risa often wondered, to have tens of thousands of babies that no one wanted or to silently make then go away before they were even born
To live means to finesse the processes to which one is subjugated.
He was the average mortal. It troubled him to get used to the world one way and then suddenly have it turn different.
What we need to realize is that there can be, shall we say, a movement, a stirring among people, which can be organically designed instead of politically designed.
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