--- On Mon, 8/25/08, Fr. Ivo C da Souza <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > When it is already closed mind to the "supernatural", even scientific > evidence will not convince. Intellectual probity is necessary. > Scientific myopia will close the eyes and not allow to see the colours > because the person is totally blind... >
The main reason why people like me respond in public forums to propagation of ignorance about science in the name of faith, such as that revealed in the above quote, is because we are interested in popularizing science and increasing the level of scientific literacy in our society. These are important social concerns for us. The above quote from Fr. Ivo reveals a fundamental lack of understanding about science and its purpose, and what is meant by scientific evidence. As I have said repeatedly, science is simply a quest to seek natural explanations. Scientific evidence can never be used to support the supernatural. All self-respecting scientists and science teachers recognize this indisputable fact and teach it to their students. Here is a pertinent quote from the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, one of the world's most respected scientific organizations, in this regard: "Science is a way of knowing about the natural world. It is limited to explaining the natural world through natural causes. Science can say nothing about the supernatural." ...........U. S. National Academy of Sciences Cheers, Santosh
