But all is not so simple or clear cut. Conflicts inevitably arise when various validated speculations conflict. The conflicts can become quite heated as cherished beliefs are challenged. Much is at stake in these conflicts. It’s not just personal belief systems with its attendant feelings of self-worth that get challenged by these confrontations but entrenched power and authority as well.

Science, as latest validation method, is at the forefront of these challenges and sits at the center of many of these conflicts. Not only is science the modern standard bearer in these conflicts but science has been unusually successful in defeating its adversaries.

Time after time science has prevailed in these conflicts. The resolution of these conflicts has often been mean, bloody and filled with unspeakable atrocities as those in authority do not give up their power easily. No longer do we generally consider that the Earth is flat or the center of the universe or that the Sun and Moon are gods streaking across the sky or believe any of a myriad other discarded beliefs.

But the principle modern conflict is between science and religion over the issue of evolution. The evolution conflict manifests itself in many forms from the persecution of heretics to the modern debate over Intelligent Design (see also the ID website and ID criticisms ). This the other realm where the “It’s just a theory,” comment is frequently used derogatorily.

To investigate this phenomenon further we have to learn what a theory and a law are. In particular, since science is being used as validation we have to explain what are scientific theories and scientific laws.

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Tags: Evolution, religion, Science

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