This is a short video produced by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). This is the organization that publishes Science.
The video features Francis Collins and others who promote the idea that religion and science are compatible.
Here's the question; why is the AAAS taking a position on this issue? Why aren't they also producing a video to present the other side; namely that science and religion are not compatible? I'm especially interested in hearing from John Pieret because he is highly critical of scientists who venture opinions about religion. John, does your criticism extend to an organization of scientists like AAAS who are taking sides in a controversial non-scientific debate? You wouldn't be happy if they came down on the side of incompatibility, is this any better?
It seems to me that organizations like AAAS should remain neutral in the debate about whether science and religions are compatible. It's okay for them to point out that intelligent design isn't science and it's okay to criticize astrology and quack medicine, but I don't think it's okay to say that the beliefs of Francis Collins (and others) are compatible with science. I don't think it's okay to promote the evangelical Christian views of Collins and not the atheist views of Richard Dawkins.
Does this meant that it will be difficult to publish an incompatibility article in Science because it contradicts official AAAS policy?
[Hat Tip: Framing Science, because Nisbet thinks this is a good frame.]
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