Unbelievable? Does Science Make God Unnecessary? Alex Carter vs Zachary Ardern hosted by Andy Kind
Oct 16, 2025
Dr. Zachary Ardern, an evolutionary biologist at Cambridge, argues for the rationality of Christian faith, suggesting it complements scientific understanding. In contrast, Dr. Alex Carter, a philosopher, challenges this viewpoint with a Wittgenstein-influenced perspective, debating the historical reliability of the Gospels and the role of faith in a rational world. They explore profound questions about morality, evidence for God, and the compatibility of scientific progress with belief, offering insights that spark critical reflection on faith and reason.
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Reasonable Versus Rational Distinction
- Alex distinguishes "reasonable" (low bar, possible) from "rational" (subject to scrutiny and defendable reasons).
- He argues rationality demands reasons that can be challenged, whereas reasonableness allows mere openness to possibility.
Faith As Potentially Rational
- Zachary argues Christian faith can be rational because it makes specific claims about history and human nature.
- He says rational faith aligns with good reasons or proper cognitive functioning and can be scrutinised.
Weeping Statue Example
- Alex gives the example of a weeping Virgin Mary statue and three reactions: divine, fraud, or a consoling question.
- He uses the third reaction to show religious responses can be non-explanatory and expressive rather than propositional.
