When science becomes religion

Religion is a culture of faith; science is a culture of doubt.

~ Richard P. Feynman

Religion and science are both systems of belief. Science is evidence-based and thus subject to constant revision and falsification. In contrast, religion is faith-based. It demands belief in the absence of evidence.

The phrase “evidence-based” originates from the concept that decisions should be grounded in data, research, or verifiable facts rather than opinion, tradition, or intuition.

It emerged in modern scientific medicine in the early 1990s (McMaster University) and now broadly refers to decision-making grounded in systematically collected evidence rather than opinion alone.

However, according to Dr. John Ioannidis, much of what medical researchers conclude in their studies is misleading, exaggerated, or flat-out wrong.

I learned to reference every fact with peer-reviewed studies when delegating on behalf of concerned citizens to change health-related policies. However, it quickly became clear how challenging it can be to change beliefs, even when the facts change.

It was frustrating to witness those who have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo attack the character of experts who had the courage to question the science.

Now, when I hear people defend archaic medical practices and sacred cows promoted by public health organizations, I cringe a little, but am humble enough to know when I am unlikely to change their minds.