Observation or faith

Observation and faith provide two ways of knowing - two kinds of knowledge.

Scientists observe. Their observations have shown us that we live in a very tiny corner of the Universe. Compared with the age of the Universe, our lives are very short indeed.

The observations help us to understand our surroundings. They help us to experience more of the beauty of the Universe. But they do not say anything about WHY we are here. They don’t even tell us whether there is a reason why at all.

Many religions claim that we are here for a reason. Their claims are based on faith and not on observation.

Religious ideas are established by ancient writings, by tradition, and by organisations that teach about the religions and consider their meaning in the modern world. Such ideas can't be proved to be wrong. Individuals, families, communities and whole nations choose whether or not to follow the teachings of a particular religion.

Loss of belief?