How to Restore Sanity to Scientific Debates
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Everywhere you turn, you’re likely to see evidence of error in thinking, and the realm of science is no exception. On this ID The Future, host Andrew McDiarmid concludes his conversation with J. Budziszewski, a professor of government, philosophy, and civic leadership at the University of Texas at Austin and author of the new book Pandemic of Lunacy: How to Think Clearly When Everyone Around You Seems Crazy. In his book, Budziszewski identifies thirty irrational ideas that are prevalent in modern society. He argues that many people have abandoned common sense and objectivity, leading to a cloud of confusion regarding human nature, science, and morality.
In Part 2, we jump into more lunacies relevant to the scientific debates around human beings, biological life, and design in nature. First, Budziszewski reminds us of the crucial difference between objectivity and neutrality. We must have a bias toward truth and fairness, he says, if we are to gain any understanding about the world and ourselves. Next, Budziszewski touches on the major differences between us and other animals as he explores bad ideas about human nature. He also explores the lunacy that everyone is either evil or good. He rejects both of those extremes, saying that the truth is more nuanced.
What about transhumanism and the idea that we can self-direct our own evolution through science and technology? Professor Budziszewski calls this approach incoherent because it attempts to redesign the very moral basis that defines human nature. It also bases decision-making on felt impulses rather than objective realities, which can lead to manipulation of people in the interest of power.
We also tackle the lunacy that all that exists is material, a claim all too familiar in the debate over the origin of life and the universe. Budziszewski explains why this idea lacks merit. He points to Richard Dawkins, a champion materialist, and his contradictory idea that we are blindly programmed to rail against our selfish genes. A strange kind of liberation indeed. Instead, Budziszewski shows us how to rebel against materialistic thinking to find the kind of freedom many of us are craving in today’s world.
This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation. Listen to or watch Part 1!
Dig Deeper
- Remember how to think clearly in a world gone crazy by getting your copy of Budziszewski’s book today!
- Find more of Professor Budziszewski’s articles, videos, and more at his website, UndergroundThomist.org.