New Books in Science, Technology, and Society Nick Spencer, "The Landscapes of Science and Religion: What Are We Disagreeing About?" (Oxford UP, 2025)
Aug 24, 2025
Nick Spencer, a Senior Fellow at Theos, explores the intricate links between science and religion. He emphasizes the complexity of defining both realms and challenges the simplistic narrative of conflict. By analyzing public perceptions shaped by media, he reveals how science is often seen as progressive while religion faces critique. Spencer discusses the ethical ramifications of advancements in genetic engineering and AI, advocating for a collaborative approach that respects diverse moral perspectives in navigating these profound intersections.
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Definitions First
- Defining science and religion is the necessary first step before debating their relationship.
- Many debates assume fixed meanings and therefore reach different conclusions prematurely.
Family Resemblance Model
- Use a family-resemblance approach: no single necessary trait defines science or religion.
- Practices form overlapping clusters so some activities are more or less 'sciencey' or 'religiony'.
Landscape Over Territory
- Landscapes are better metaphors than territories because they avoid fixed borders.
- A landscape metaphor produces graduated boundaries rather than sharp demarcation lines.
