Can the sciences legitimately distinguish between true and false religious beliefs? Why or why not?
Is there anything about the scientific method or methods of inquiry that would prevent the sciences from legitimately distinguishing a true religious belief from a false one?
For instance:
1) Assuming that the sciences could indeed tell us whether at least some religious beliefs were true or false, then in what way(s), if any, would it matter that the sciences could do so?
2) What, if anything, is the relationship between scientifically established fact (and/or hypotheses) and the meanings or purposes of religions?
Is there anything about the scientific method or methods of inquiry that would prevent the sciences from legitimately distinguishing a true religious belief from a false one?
For instance:
Can the sciences legitimately tell us whether the notion that Rama's Bridge was built by the Vanara army of Rama is true or false? Why or why not?
Can the sciences legitimately tell us whether the notion that there was once a great flood covering all the earth is true or false? Why or why not?
Can the sciences legitimately tell us whether any specific deity exists or doesn't exist? Why or why not?
Can the sciences legitimately tell us whether enlightenment is an actual state of awareness? Why or why not?
etc.
BONUS QUESTIONs (EDITED):Can the sciences legitimately tell us whether the notion that there was once a great flood covering all the earth is true or false? Why or why not?
Can the sciences legitimately tell us whether any specific deity exists or doesn't exist? Why or why not?
Can the sciences legitimately tell us whether enlightenment is an actual state of awareness? Why or why not?
etc.
1) Assuming that the sciences could indeed tell us whether at least some religious beliefs were true or false, then in what way(s), if any, would it matter that the sciences could do so?
2) What, if anything, is the relationship between scientifically established fact (and/or hypotheses) and the meanings or purposes of religions?
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