Homebrewed Christianity

Myron Penner: Five Ways Science Can Help Your Faith

Sep 16, 2025
Myron Penner, a professor of philosophy and a director at the Anabaptist-Mennonite Centre, shares intriguing insights on how science can enrich faith. He discusses five ways to bridge the perceived gap between science and religion, touching on the importance of challenging harmful theological beliefs and fostering open dialogue. With playful critiques of notable figures and an exploration of cognitive science in worship, Penner emphasizes the beauty of collaborative inquiry into existence and how this understanding can deepen spiritual journeys.
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INSIGHT

Conflict Thesis Is Overstated

  • The conflict thesis between science and religion is overstated and historically contingent.
  • Many leading scientists were people of faith, enabling fruitful conversation rather than inevitable warfare.
ADVICE

Give Science Its Due

  • Respect science for what it can legitimately show; check empirical intersections with theology.
  • Use scientific evidence to correct theological claims that make empirical assertions.
INSIGHT

Empirical Claims Are Provisional

  • Empirical religious claims sit on a spectrum of confidence that can change with new data.
  • Recognize provisional scientific answers and let theology adapt where it makes empirical claims.
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