Science operates in the natural, not the supernatural. In fact, I go so far as to state that there is no such thing as the supernatural or the paranormal.
Michael ShermerRead
How can we find spiritual meaning in a scientific worldview? Spirituality is a way of being in the world, a sense of one’s place in the cosmos, a relationship to that which extends beyond oneself. . . . Does scientific explanation of the world diminish its spiritual beauty? I think not. Science and spirituality are complementary, not conflicting; additive, not detractive. Anything that generates a sense of awe may be a source of spirituality. Science does this in spades. (158-159)
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that spirituality and science can coexist and complement each other, enriching our understanding of the universe.
Michael Shermer posits that spirituality and a scientific worldview are not in conflict but rather enhance one another. He argues that the scientific exploration of the cosmos can evoke a sense of wonder and awe that contributes to one's spiritual experience. By indicating that science can generate feelings typically associated with spirituality, Shermer concludes that both realms together can enhance our comprehension of existence rather than detract from it.
Themes
SpiritualityScienceMeaningCosmosAwe
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on the intersection of faith and reason, one might reference this quote.
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My libertarian beliefs have not always served me well. Like most people who hold strong ideological convictions, I find that, too often, my beliefs trump the scientific facts.
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