Beliefs in Harmony: A Science Journalist's Perspective

Knowledge equips us, yet it does not supplant faith; rather, it enhances it. One of my initial courses during graduate studies was an elective focused on "literary science writing." On the first day, the instructor, an established author in medical ethics, bluntly stated that anyone who believed in a higher power had no place in her class and should not pursue a career in science writing.

In hindsight, I wish I had confidently declared, "I believe in God!" and followed it with a clever counterargument. However, I tend to avoid conflict and often struggle with spontaneous responses. Moreover, I doubted my ability to articulate my dual beliefs in God and science effectively. Engaging with someone who had already made up her mind seemed futile.

The perception that science belongs to intellectual elites while religion is reserved for the uninformed has long been perpetuated. Although I had heard this argument throughout my life, it was still painful to hear it voiced directly. I could accept her scientific views, yet she dismissed my belief in God. This experience made me question my decision to return to school, leading me to heed her warning and withdraw from the class, though I continued my pursuit of a degree in science writing.

The idea that science and faith cannot coexist has persisted for some time, but it is not as entrenched as many assume. In "Galileo Goes to Jail and Other Myths About Science and Religion," edited by historian Ronald Numbers, 25 scholars debunk prevalent myths regarding the historical interplay between these two fields. Numbers observes that the most significant misconception is the belief that science and religion have always been in constant conflict. He notes that from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, Western thought recognized both scripture and nature as divinely inspired, providing complementary insights.

Today, Western thinkers often reduce Christianity to a mere fairy tale, viewing its followers as irrational. In contrast, we tend to admire Eastern religions for their exotic and mystical qualities. Why can't we extend the same respect to familiar faiths? Why is a Christian labeled as uneducated, while someone practicing Zen Buddhism is perceived as intriguing?

It would significantly benefit Christians if prominent American evangelicals ceased to distort Christianity into a justification for hatred, discrimination, and inequality. Their efforts to censor science education, akin to advocating for abstinence-only programs, only reinforce claims of ignorance. For me, knowledge enhances faith rather than replacing it.

In many of my recent journalistic endeavors, I have found that the complexities of life are often much greater than we realize or have been led to believe. This complexity presents a challenge for writers, and I understand the tendency to oversimplify. Unfortunately, such reporting fosters a divisive “versus” mentality rather than promoting a culture of dialogue that appreciates our differences.

During a science writers' conference a few years ago, a cosmologist presented his research on the cosmic microwave background and the rapid expansion following the universe's inception. He noted, "The big bang theory says nothing about what initiated the universe's expansion." While this statement may have gone unnoticed by most, it struck me as a profound insight. It has always puzzled me why we frame the big bang and a Creator as mutually exclusive. Why can't God be the one who initiated the big bang? The phrase "set in motion" conjured an image of someone placing a needle on a record. If we can hear cosmic music, why shouldn't it come from an omnipotent DJ?

Seeking ways to reconcile my belief in a higher power with scientific truths, I found comfort in "Einstein’s God: Conversations About Science and the Human Spirit." Journalist Krista Tippett argues that the science-religion "debate" is unwinnable and has led us off course. She believes that requiring science and religion to speak the same language or reach the same conclusions undermines both pursuits. Tippett asserts that a discourse between them has organically evolved, rich with insights and promise.

Another valuable resource I discovered is the organization Reasons to Believe, founded by a diverse group of scientists and theologians. Their mission is to demonstrate that sound reasoning and scientific discoveries support, rather than diminish, confidence in the truths of the Bible.

As a science journalist, I take a considerable risk in openly expressing my Christianity, given that many share my professor’s view that faith disqualifies me from discussing science. I focus on health and medical topics, rather than evolutionary biology or cosmology, so I hope this distinction lessens the impact of my beliefs. I don’t advocate for faith healing over medical intervention or view birth control as contrary to God’s will.

I believe my faith influences my reporting by prompting me to highlight marginalized communities and overlooked injustices with compassion. My faith compels me to care for the Earth and advocate for justice and equality. While I may not explicitly reference my beliefs in my articles, I feel called to affirm my faith publicly—that Christ died for my sins. If the consequence is losing a few readers or facing skepticism in my field, I consider myself fortunate. In many parts of the world, declaring one's faith can lead to dire consequences.

The various labels I could apply to myself—such as hippie, introvert, Christian, feminist, wife, science enthusiast, journalist, mother, environmentalist—may seem incompatible due to popular perceptions. Yet I embody the truth that these identities can coexist harmoniously.

Chapter 1: The Intersection of Science and Faith

Science and faith are often viewed as opposing forces, but this chapter explores their potential to coexist peacefully.

Section 1.1: A Personal Encounter with Conflict

In this section, I recount a personal experience that sparked my reflection on the relationship between faith and science.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Professor's Challenge

Chapter 2: Understanding the Coexistence

This video discusses whether science and religion can coexist harmoniously, featuring insights from Neil deGrasse Tyson.

In this video, the question of whether Christianity and science can find common ground is explored in depth.