In the late 1930s he wrote, "[G]ood is... everything that brings a spiritual growth to the world" (King 166). Thus, he explains his ability to balance science and faith. Science, at least in his mind, brings a spiritual growth to the world by explaining how systems work and live together, and how they have evolved. Science has made broad achievements in the world, from halting illness to discovering life-changing global problems that must be solved to ensure the survival of humankind. Thus, science brings knowledge, but also brings spiritual growth, and in that, it cannot be bad.
This analogy certainly worked throughout Teilhard de Chardin's life. While his theories were not accepted during his lifetime, he managed to always combine his love for his scientific studies with his passion for his faith. This was not incongruous to him - in fact, he felt he could not fully experience one without the other.
Perhaps the biggest illustration of his devotion to both science and faith is how open he remained during his lifetime. King notes, "Teilhard always remained open to new ideas right to the end of his life" (King 213). Perhaps this is one reason there was such controversy over his ideas. The Church is not open to new ideas, in fact, it is quite eloquent in its denouncement of many new ideas and technology, and its dogma is rooted in the past, rather than the present or future. Teilhard was always open to the ability for things to change, while the Church wanted things...
They had to clash, and he had to lose, because the Church was so powerful. His ideas are openly accepted today, but it took until after his death for the Church to accept his notions of evolution and science, and admit that science and faith really do complement each other. Today, some of this acceptance is again eroding away, and it seems the world could be returning to a time when science and faith are being divided. Perhaps it would help many who decry the blend of science and faith to remember Teilhard's words, "[G]ood is... everything that brings a spiritual growth to the world" (King 166).
In conclusion, Teilhard de Chardin's life is a glowing testament to the ability of science and religion to complement and support each other. His work was not accepted during his lifetime, but today, he is one of the premier theologians and scientists recognized by many. His life illustrates his commitment to his Jesuit principles and his ability to study and support his scientific beliefs as well. Science and faith do complement each other, and they should not be separated in doctrine or belief. Censured by the Catholic Church, he never lost his faith in his doctrine or his passion for science, and his life is a true indicator that science and faith can work hand-in-hand to create a broader understanding of both.
References
King, Ursula. Spirit of Fire: The Life and Vision of Teilhard de Chardin. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books,…
