Faith Perspective on Modern Technology

Bahai Community

 The Baha’i Faith teaches the harmony of science and religion. The issue of “My Faith and Modern Technology” is dealt with for this issue in the context of the harmony of science and religion.

Religion and science are the two wings upon which man’s intelligence can soar into the heights, with which the human soul can progress.

- 'Abdu'l-Baha

There is no contradiction between true religion and science. When a religion is opposed to science it becomes mere superstition: that which is contrary to knowledge is ignorance.

- 'Abdu'l-Baha

How can a man believe to be a fact that which science has proved to be impossible? If he believes in spite of his reason, it is rather ignorant superstition than faith.

- 'Abdu'l-Baha

We should not be afraid of modern technology and the advancement of science.

Knowledge is as wings to man’s life, and a ladder for his ascent. Its acquisition is incumbent upon everyone. … In truth, knowledge is a veritable treasure for man, and a source of glory, of bounty, of joy, of exaltation, of cheer and gladness unto him.

- Baha'u'llah

When the material and spiritual dimensions of the life of a community are kept in mind and due attention is given to both scientific and spiritual knowledge, the tendency to reduce human progress to the consumption of goods, services and technological packages is avoided. Spiritual insight gives rise to moral imperatives that uphold social harmony and that ensure technology serves the common good. Together, these two sources of knowledge, science and religion are essential to the liberation of individuals and communities from the traps of ignorance and passivity. They are vital to the advancement of civilization.

In summary, faiths and people of faith should welcome science and modern technology and approach it in two ways:

1.      Science and reason should be embraced as a means of safeguarding religion from the corruptions of superstition and ignorance.

2.      Moral standards are necessary to ensure that technology and science are of benefit to people, society and the environment rather than being destructive.  This is one of the purposes of religion.