The Compatibility of Evolution and Catholicism

Father George Coyne, former director of the Vatican Observatory, discusses the compatibility of evolution and Catholicism. He emphasizes that his views are his own, not the official position of the Catholic Church. He states that Catholicism does not have an official stance on evolution and that there are divergent beliefs within the Catholic tradition. Coyne asserts that Darwinian evolution is the best scientific explanation for the origin of the universe and life, including humans. He also clarifies that evolution does not negate the existence of God, as God can work through the evolutionary process. Coyne criticizes the intelligent design movement, stating that it ventures into religious territory rather than adhering to scientific methodology. He acknowledges the challenge of reconciling miracles with scientific thought and concludes that his belief in God is a matter of faith that cannot be rationalized completely.