Science and Religion

Science and Religion

 Introduction: We have had some very serious conversations about Science and Religion recently. The point of this written assignment is to solidify our understanding of some of the detailed concepts we explored while also concentrating on our large-scale perspectives to bring them into a more clearly focused form. Paragraph #1: Consider the following statement: ″Science gives us undeniable facts.″ Begin your paragraph by explain in what sense this sentence is true. Then, explain Popper′s concept of falsifiability and how this concept gives us a more accurate understanding of the knowledge that is yielded by the scientific method. (In order to answer this, you will have to explain the difference between provisional conclusions and Absolute Truth.) (Use Wolff, Chapter 4.) (45 points) Paragraph #2: Explain the difference between scientific knowledge and religious truths, using as your examples evolution (science) and God′s Goodness (i.e., omnibenevolence, which is a religious truth in some religions). With respect to the knowledge of science, be sure to explain the role of data, doubt, and faith? With respect to the truths of religion, be sure to explain the role of data, doubt, and faith? What are the strengths and weaknesses of religious truths? What are the strengths and weaknesses of scientific knowledge? (Another way of asking this last part is: What could happen if things go right? What could possibly go wrong?) (Use class notes from 2/24 and 2/26. You can also use Wolff, Chapter 4.) (45 points) Paragraph #3: Write a philosophically insightful paragraph based on the following double-exposure photograph (10 points). Points will be awarded based on originality, insightfulness, and creativity. DO NOT SEARCH THE INTERNET FOR SOMEONE ELSE′S INSIGHTS. Obviously, this part of the assignment is inspired by Chapter 16 of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. 5730247bbd77186acb09f973266983ca–art-expression-black-and-white-city.jpg Complete Paragraph (explanation): The best paragraphs are mini essays. They have an introductory/thesis statement, evidence (with citations, see below), and a concluding sentence. However, the focus should be on convincing me that you have developed an understanding of the material. If this is accomplished in an alternative writing style (other than: thesis, evidence, conclusion), that is acceptable. Quotations: Please, do not use any quotations in this assignment. Restate information in your own words, and use citations (see below) as necessary. Citations: On the other hand, I would like citations for your evidence. Let′s say at least one citation per paragraph as a minimum. They should look like this (Pirsig, p. 25). Or, if it is from lecture notes you write it like this (Valentine, Jan 5). Writing Assignment Rubric: Paragraphs should be between 200 and 300 words each. Longer paragraphs (even going over 300 words) are almost always better as the emphasis is on demonstrating your understanding. Answers that are complete, accurate, based on the reading materials (not Google searches), and well-written (college level) will receive all of the possible points. Assignments that do not achieve these goals will have points deducted in proportion to the incompleteness/incorrectness. As always, the emphasis is on demonstrating your understanding. So, please,make sure you express yourself in your own words clearly. Use quotations as needed, but they should not be used to speak for you. Think of quotations more as evidence to support your position, rather than the means by which you express yourself.