Our Faith in Science

Tenzin Gyatso, aka the Dalai Lama, throwing down some fat wisdom about religion and science.

If science proves some belief of Buddhism wrong, then Buddhism will have to change. In my view, science and Buddhism share a search for the truth and for understanding reality. By learning from science about aspects of reality where its understanding may be more advanced, I believe that Buddhism enriches its own worldview.

With the huge amount of effort that Christian leaders in the US are fighting evolution, it is nice to see a religious leader spewing a philosophy that makes sense.

So what then is religion's role with science?

I believe that we must find a way to bring ethical considerations to bear upon the direction of scientific development, especially in the life sciences. By invoking fundamental ethical principles, I am not advocating a fusion of religious ethics and scientific inquiry.

Rather, I am speaking of what I call "secular ethics," which embrace the principles we share as human beings: compassion, tolerance, consideration of others, the responsible use of knowledge and power. These principles transcend the barriers between religious believers and non-believers; they belong not to one faith, but to all faiths.

Think there is any chance his Hollywood buddies could convince him to stay here and replace Pat Robertson on the 700 Club?

Via New York Times