The Relation of Science and Religion.pdf - Online Christian Library

36 SCIENCE AND RELIGION.grounds, our concluding point is connectedwith competency to enter upon critical inquiryas to the harmony of religion and science.What has been said as to knowledgeof the Bible as a prerequisite for the discussionof our problem, must equally hold as toscience. One thing, however, needs to befairly stated and deliberately allowed; thepossibility of intelligent and adequate criticismdoes not iinply full acquaintance withscientific methods, and personal ability to testthe results of their application. Most of usmust be content to take our scientific knowledgeon trust, as Chaucer did, when he declinedto enter upon the intricacies of astronomicalstudy, because he was too old formaking satisfactory progress.* To acceptscientific conclusions without personal verificationis simply inevitable. When scientificmen themselves have come to a general agreement,and are not any longer in conflict on aparticular conclusion, this must be enough forthe great majority of intelligent inquirers." 'Wilt thou learne of sterres ought?''N&y, certailily,' quod I, 'right naught.''And why ? ' quod he. For I am old. "'HOUSE OF FUE, B. 11, 487.