Jerry A. Coyne, Faith vs. Fact: Why Science and Religion Are Incom- patible, Viking, 2015, pp. 311, $28.95, ISBN 978-0-670-02653-1
Jerry A. Coyne, Faith vs. Fact: Why Science and Religion Are Incom- patible, Viking, 2015, pp. 311, $28.95, ISBN 978-0-670-02653-1
Reviewed by Dr William Patterson
ABSTRACT
Jerry Coyne’s first book meant for a popular audi- ence, Why Evolution is True, was a masterful exposition of the evidence supporting evolutionary biology. It was rightly seen by many as one of the best books yet written on that subject for a general audience and deservedly spent time on the bestsellers list. In his second book, Faith vs. Fact: Why Science and Religion are Incompatible, Coyne does less well. His aim is to demonstrate that the contrasting mindsets underlying science (with its emphasis on rationality, evidence, experimentation, and observation) and religion (with its emphasis on faith) are intrinsically opposed and that all attempts to reconcile them must result in failure. Coyne has much of use to say on the topic and many of his points are powerfully made. His case is weakened, however, by his incoherent treatment of epistemology. This problem is serious in that it lies at the heart of the matter and serves to undermine, at least to some extent, parts of Coyne’s main argument.
To share on other social networks, click on any share button. What are these?
