I have been accused of being an evangelist for science. I’ve decided that that’s probably a bit strong, as the term evangelism is generally reserved for efforts to convert others to belief in the Christian gospel. Let’s just say that I am a strong advocate for the advancement of science. And briefly here is why.
I am still troubled by a story I read a few years ago about a very bright student who was graduating from a parochial high school and who in his valedictory address at commencement stated that he was planning to devote his career to proving that creationism was right and that evolution was wrong. I remember thinking at the time, what a waste of intellectual talent. I’m not advocating that everyone become a scientist, of course. Not everyone is cut out for such a career, and we need people in all manner of other disciplines. But everyone could have at least a basic understanding of and respect for the scientific method and the knowledge of the world that it has provided us.
I believe I have an obligation to the future. I believe that I have a responsibility to do the best that I can to leave the world a better place. Actually, I believe we all do. Of course, I am just one of over seven billion humans. Moreover, I think it is reasonable that most of my effort be focused on my circle of family and friends. But to the extent that I can reach beyond that circle, I believe that the best that I can do, given who I am, is to advocate for knowledge over ignorance and for a healthy skepticism over a blind acceptance. And in my view we have devised no better method for advancing our knowledge and understanding of the world than through application of rational analysis and the scientific method.
© 2018 John M. Phillips
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