The Assumption Of Value Neutrality Of Science Needs Re-thinking

I firmly believe in the oneness of God, the unity of the universe and the unity of all mankind. But I also believe in science. For me science means to seek understanding and knowledge. For me science means the search for truth. Science does not, however, attempt to reach absolute truth or ultimate knowledge of reality. It only tries to get closer and nearer to it as much as is humanly possible, because science has its limitation. It can only work with what can be comprehended by human intellect and senses. Science cannot deal with what is beyond and what lies outside.

In my previous blog I have referred to Albert Einstein’s words ”science without religion is lame, and religion without science is blind”. This is one way to explain my hunger for understanding dialogue - my search for truth - by starting with my own name Wassila and enhancing my knowledge of Islam.

Recently I have been reading some of the work of Mumtaz Ali Kazi on the concept of scientific knowledge in Islam. In Islam there is no science for the sake of science and no knowledge for the sake of knowledge. Everything is for an end which is using the science and knowledge for the good of humanity. This is a very holistic and integrated way of looking at science and its purpose to contribute to a society’s value system.

A major factor in the use - and I understand why Mumtaz says “misuse” - of modern science and technology for destructive ends is its supposed value-neutral framework. The renaissance of science in Europe was accompanied by a separation of the religious and the secular. Science has become a means towards the continued pursuit of whatever aims are deemed appropriate by those with the greatest influence, prestige, and control. In other words, science has become a major tool for social manipulation and the service of profit.

I believe that we as “modern” human beings can restore our lack of value and purpose. We are capable of developing - and I love Mumtaz’s words - an integrated appreciation of reality and to react to it rationally and holistically. Therefore, the assumption of value neutrality of science needs re-thinking.

I truly believe that our science will flourish (even more), as well as, protect society from its misuse. I say “flourish” because I strongly believe that’s what devotion of the entire scientific effort towards understanding of natural phenomena, opening of new frontiers of knowledge, discovering of hidden resources and developing of new processes for the welfare and wellbeing of humanity leads to.

What do you think? Do you see science for solving problems of humankind or helping the individual to know more about the creation of life? Leave me a message in the comment section below, I'd love to hear from you.

- W.