Why the current interest in faith vs science

There is currently alot of buzz surrounding books like "The End of Faith" by Sam Harris and "The Science of God" by Gerald Schroeder.

For those who are interested about war and the study of war, historically, politically, philosophically blah blah, will most probably have heard of Carl von Clausewitz. He's like the western world's Sun Zi. Both are famous for writing about war and strategy. Clausewitz wrote On War and Sun Zi had The Art Of War (兵法 or "ways of war").

Clausewtiz first used phrases like "fog of war" and "centre of gravity" when discussing about war. Both are still very much in use today.

The classic Clausewitzian definition of war is:

War therefore is an act of violence to compel our opponent to fulfil our will.

Will is a very tricky subject. When we look at the definition of "centre of gravity", it is the enemy's source of strength, the will to fight.

Post September 11, the majority of unrest in the world is caused by an over-riding cause. I might be causing some of you to see red when I say the cause but it's actually an opinion shared by many.

So maybe the reason why alot of literature is currently being written on the subject of faith vs science is because of the current world order. The pitting of one's religious faith against another. And the best way to end the antagonism is perhaps to wear down the will of all parties. Religion and faith seems to be the main "centre of gravity" for all sides. The main source of strength, providing the will to fight.

And that is why faith and religion is being questioned. If we can prove that faith and religion is just alot of hot air and no substance, the will to fight will be attrited.




I'm all mixed up. Because I don't trust humans enough to think that we'll prosper and flourish without some form of faith. But the current state is far from ideal as well. Faith is not the only source of decorum and humanity. Neither is democracy.

But this line of questioning is a good start.

image from wellingtongrey.net