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Science and religion are two windows that people look through, trying to understand the big universe outside, trying to understand why we are here. The two windows give different views, but they look out at the same universe. Both views are one-sided, neither is complete. Both leave out essential features of the real world. And both are worthy of respect.

Freeman Dyson#36

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About this quote

What does it mean?
Science and religion offer different but worthy views of the same universe.
In plain terms
Both fields offer partial views of reality worthy of respect.
What can you take from it?
Respect both science and religion as partial views.

Where it applies

  • interdisciplinary study
  • personal worldview
  • dialogue

Putting it to work

  • study both fields
  • avoid dismissing either

Questions to consider

  • Can views ever fully merge?
  • Which view matters more?

Another view

It ignores deep conflicts where views fundamentally clash.

More from Freeman Dyson

  1. After sketching his program for the scientific revolution that he foresaw, Bacon ends his account with a prayer: 'Humbly we pray that this mind may be steadfas…

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  2. Trouble arises when either science or religion claims universal jurisdiction, when either religious dogma or scientific dogma claims to be infallible. Religiou…

    Permalink to quote #37
  3. To talk about the end of science is just as foolish as to talk about the end of religion. Science and religion are both still close to their beginnings, with n…

    Permalink to quote #34

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