It can also, thirdly , suggest alternative perspectives for today. Then again, a sound understanding of the mechanical philosophy of the 17th and 18th centuries would show how such a worldview did not inevitably lead to an abrogation of moral responsibility for the environment. Fourthly , historical insights can help to expose the limitations of science. I refer rather to the more mature and responsible analysis of the nature of science that marks much modern historical study. Few, however, are aware of the distinction between science and scientism, as witnessed by many contemporary discussions.
Historical insights can be enormously helpful here.
6 Science per se can never claim to have had these extravagant values attributed to it. However, science is not value-free. Fifthly , history can demonstrate that the relationship between science and religion is not a static one. That matters very much in an age when past stereotypes are often taken as normative for today. To ignore the changing relationship is to deny the possibilities of creative dialogue, a process to which Christians in Science and its associated journal Science and Christian Belief remain totally committed.