The "All-Knowing" Science

"I believe in science!" said Esqueleto in the movie Nacho Libre. In the context of the movie this is a comical statement, because it seems that Esqueleto would have no knowledge of science. However, the idea that science is all-encompassing entity of knowledge underlies the mind-set of many people. In fact, I would argue that from its struggle to separate from religion, people have turned science into a religion. The world-renowned scientists of today are prophets and oracles that declare absolute truths that must not be questioned (except possibly by other authorities).


The original intent of science was to observe and understand nature. Doing so allowed mankind to predict patterns and progress by improving lifestyles. Many of the most accomplished scientists never assumed that they had the complete picture though and even invited criticism and adjustments to their proposed theories. Because science has advanced so far and has explained many observations so well, the general public is losing the idea that theories are simply speculations that have not yet been proven false (highly supported speculations, but speculations nonetheless). Surprisingly, they are willing to give up deeply-rooted belief systems because a scientist declares that God cannot exist or inexplicable events are religious myths. The irony is that the search to break from traditional religious dogma has lead many to the modern "scientific religious" dogma.

Our society needs to break from this unhealthy adoration of science. Science itself never claims to define absolute truth. It would be absurd to religiously follow a leader that questioned his own claims, so why do we believe so strongly that scientific discoveries are unquestionable facts. Religious and moral belief systems present absolute truths that structure and protect society. Science could never do such a thing with theories. The scientific community is only an authority for interpreting data and developing theories, not for creating a system of beliefs and values.