Faith & Reason

The Becoming Gift segment this week strives to disprove idea of faith and reason are in opposition, Faith and Reason are like "two wings" on which the human spirit ascends to truth, as described by Pope St. John Paul II. This discussion on Morning Offering criticizes both a "leap of faith" approach that rejects reason and a scientism that reduces reason solely to the measurable, presenting both as narrow extremes that distort a broader understanding of faith and reason. This episode emphasizes that while faith is above reason, they are always in harmony, and that scientific pursuits need to be grounded in philosophy and the humanities for them to be used well.

Key Takeaways:

• The relationship between faith and reason is often presented as conflicting or "at war" in society, with historical myths suggesting the Church is anti-science or anti-reason.

• Two extremes in society that exemplify this misunderstanding are the "leap of faith" idea (faith requires jumping off a cliff) and "scientism" (reducing reason to only what is measurable by the scientific method)

• The Catholic Church has always taught that there is a harmony between faith and reason

• Reason should be understood broadly, encompassing science, poetry, literature, stories that point to deeper realities, classical studies, and the university6.

• Faith is also broader than just belief in God; humans constantly operate on a kind of "natural faith" in daily life, such as trusting other drivers or believing people love us. This natural faith is an ordinary part of the mind's operation.

• Catholics also possess "supernatural faith," a theological virtue that "divinizes" the mind, allowing it to see reality as God sees it and experience things beyond reason.

• Scientific pursuits should be grounded in philosophy and the humanities. The historical reason for academic doctorates being "philosophical doctorates" (PhDs) is that these fields were guided by philosophical principles. Philosophy can ensure scientific power is used well.

• Faith and reason are mutually important. Theology is seen as a science above philosophy, the study of God, needed to guide and direct philosophy. Seeking God brings everything else into order.