scientism
SY-un-tih-zum
Definition
The philosophical belief that modern scientific methods are the only valid, reliable way to gain knowledge and truth about reality, often excluding other fields like ethics or theology.
Etymology
Derived from the English 'science' combined with the suffix '-ism' (denoting a doctrine or ideology). It emerged in the mid-19th century as a term, often pejorative, for an exaggerated reliance on the natural sciences as the sole authority for human knowledge.
In the news
The article uses the term to highlight a contradiction in C. W. Howell's argument, where he accuses intelligent design proponents of being 'scientistic' while he simultaneously demands unquestioning obedience to scientific consensus.
Is Intelligent Design the Root of All Science Skepticism?
Read the full article ↗Science and Culture Today