Seduced by Science

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American religion, Steven Goldberg argues, has fallen into a trap. At a time when it has gained political strength and the legal right to engage in public discourse, it has lost its distinctive voice. Rather than discussing human values, goals, and limits, it increasingly adopts the language of science. In the U.S., science wields significant influence, leading religious leaders to frame their responses to technological advances in scientific terms. They assert that medical studies support the power of prayer, that science validates biblical accounts, and that patenting genetic code threatens our essence. Goldberg contends that when religious figures focus on double-blind studies and genetic explanations for behavior, they trivialize religion rather than elevate it. By allowing scientific discourse to dictate the terms of the debate, they divert attention from the essential concerns of values, morality, and humility. While science can inform us about what exists, it offers little guidance on what should be, and religious leaders often miss opportunities to contribute a faith-based perspective to public discussions following scientific advancements. Goldberg explores recent conflicts between science and religion, including the medicinal effects of prayer, the human genome project, and cloning. He raises the critical question of religion's role in contemporary public life and suggests ways for religious leaders to engage more