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Dharma ke bina vigyan nangar chhai, vigyan ke bina dharma aanhar chhai (68th BPSC Essay)
Albert Einstein’s statement that “Science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind” highlights the interdependent relationship between science and religion. This statement suggests that science and religion are not contradictory but rather complementary to each other. In the present time, there are different opinions in society regarding science and religion. Some consider science as an opponent of religion, while others believe that religion is superior to science. The question arises as to what is the significance of science and religion in our lives and whether they are truly opposed to each other or if they share a mutual connection.
To understand religion, it is essential to know that in ancient scriptures, the term ‘Dharma’ was not associated with any sect or specific faith but rather with duty and morality. Religion is related to human faith and belief, which determine an individual’s spiritual and ethical values. On the other hand, science is based on experiments and research aimed at making human life simpler and more advanced. The purpose of science is to understand the physical world and contribute to the development of human society through new inventions.
Both science and religion assist in the pursuit of truth, but their methods differ. Science explores the physical world, while religion is concerned with human values and ethics. Without religion, science can lose its moral compass, leading to destructive consequences. Examples such as nuclear bombs, biological weapons, and environmental degradation prove that if science is devoid of ethics, it can become catastrophic. In this context, Mahatma Gandhi considered “science without humanity” as one of the seven social sins.
Conversely, if blind faith dominates religion and obstructs scientific progress, it can hinder societal development. History has repeatedly shown that superstitions and rigid traditions have led to the rejection of scientific discoveries. During medieval India, sea voyages were considered inauspicious, which caused India to lag behind Western countries in geographical explorations. Similarly, caste systems and untouchability were practices established in the name of religion without any scientific basis. The perception of women as weaker and subordinate to men was also inspired by religious beliefs, lacking any logical foundation.
If a balance between religion and science is maintained, it can be highly beneficial for human society. Nuclear energy, developed by science, can be used for energy security instead of destruction. Similarly, genetic engineering can be utilized for biodiversity conservation and food security. Thus, if science is balanced with the ethical values of religion, it can be beneficial for both humanity and nature.
In India, the harmony between religion and science has been observed since ancient times. The Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas exhibit a remarkable blend of religious and scientific ideas. Even in modern times, it is essential to perceive science and religion as complementary rather than contradictory. The integration of science and religion can ensure global peace and human welfare. While scientific discoveries unravel the mysteries of the physical world, religion helps maintain social balance by teaching morality and values. In this context, Swami Vivekananda’s statement is highly relevant: “Where science ends, spirituality begins.”
Einstein “Where science ends, spirituality begins.” – Swami Vivekananda
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