Strategic Alliance of Science and Theology: Nonviolent Resistance to Global Challenges and Antagonism

Abstract

The starting point of this paper is that science and religion, alongside social and political dynamics, have massive effects on global challenges such as conflicts (national, geopolitical, ideological, or religious), environmental matters, growing radicalism, nationalism, or influence social justice. Historically, the relationship between science and religion has recently ranged from conflict to hostility. The normative action of mutual understanding and the interaction and cooperation between science and religion depend primarily on the participants (non-politized theologians and scientists), in constructive dialogue, particularly regarding global issues. Conflicting narratives between science and religion is an opportunity for joint learning and contribution to a better world and a compassionate culture. Therefore, the leading ideas of the discourse across borders are the promotion of synergy between sciences and religions, as well as cooperation between nations in promoting a compassionate society – an empathetic civilization. Nonviolent dissent to global challenges should be involved in changing the power imbalance as a source of structural violence, but the practice of liberation must focus on social justice, sociopolitical stability, and critical human security. In facing global challenges, science and religion must have diplomatic value by promoting mutual understanding and using a common language through collaboration. Religious traditions, and science, strengthened by global non-religious spiritualism as the valuable means of general spiritual growth, should assert a culture of peace and dialogue for transnational challenges. However, material science and theology are not explicitly formative to growing radical nationalism, racism, conflicts, hegemonism, destruction of the earth, and socioeconomic inequality. The healthy strategic union between science and religion enforced by ethical and constructive politics can support and enhance the resolution of global issues and antagonistic practices. Such a normative-formative framework should ensure that knowledge is developed to advance human, social, economic, and environmental goals according to the moral principles of each religion.