The Word on Fire Show - Catholic Faith and Culture WOF 016: Bill Nye and Science vs. Philosophy
Mar 29, 2016
A viral video by Bill Nye stirs a debate about the relevance of philosophy in understanding life’s big questions. Bishop Barron defends philosophy's importance, countering claims that it’s outdated and discussing its distinct role from science. They explore philosophical inquiries like consciousness, and tackle skepticism through Hume and Descartes. Additionally, they consider the value of philosophy as a major and whether truth is something we invent. The discussion also touches on engaging with skeptics in the media.
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Applause For Available Confession
- Bishop Barron recounts giving Mercy talks at the Los Angeles cathedral with 600 attendees.
- The crowd applauded when priests offered to hear confessions after the talk.
Philosophy Remains Intellectually Independent
- Bishop Barron says dismissing philosophy as obsolete shows ignorance and arrogance.
- Philosophy developed distinct methods and continues to offer rational contributions beyond science.
Philosophy As The Why-Question Engine
- Philosophy presses the 'why' question beyond the scientific 'how' and reaches foundational issues.
- Some questions (meaning, grounds of science, consciousness) require non-scientific rational methods.
