A Candid Interview: Dawkins on the State of Science

In a revealing conversation with Nick Gillespie at Reason Magazine, renowned evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins shared his concerns about the growing challenges facing science. This discussion coincided with the release of his upcoming book, *Genetic Book of the Dead (2024)*.

Māori Myths vs. Scientific Facts

One poignant section of the interview highlighted Dawkins' alarm over the incorporation of Māori origin myths into New Zealand's science curriculum. He criticized the government's decision to present these myths alongside established scientific theories like the Big Bang and DNA research, urging that such practices blur the lines between genuine scientific inquiry and cultural storytelling.

Dawkins remarked, "The government is equating Māori myths with actual science, which is problematic. Students are taught both scientific facts and tales of a sky father and earth mother – which could bewilder young minds!" He suggested that while the appreciation of Māori culture is important, it should not be taught in science classes.

The Cost of Upholding Scientific Integrity

Dawkins further elaborated on the backlash faced by New Zealand scientists who protested this intertwining of myth and science. "These distinguished scientists were met with threats to their careers simply for asserting the need for rigorous scientific standards. It’s a disturbing echo of the cancel culture perpetuated by those who champion subjective truths over established facts."

A Broader Crisis in Scientific Credibility

Dawkins’ perspective extends beyond New Zealand to a broader crisis regarding the validity of modern science. He remarked on the troubling narratives emerging in recent years, where cultural beliefs overshadow evidence-based reasoning.

"If scientific objectivity is a myth, then we must question the credibility of science itself. We face scandals like massive fraud rings publishing fake studies, and the very foundation of evidence-based medicine is under scrutiny," Dawkins lamented, emphasizing the urgent need for a revival of robust scientific inquiry.

Reflecting on a Faith-less Science

In a thought-provoking acknowledgment, Dawkins noted the historical link between Christianity and the rise of scientific thought during the 17th to 19th centuries, suggesting that as religious fervor declines, so too does the support for rigorous scientific exploration. He expressed regret for his previous comments about cultural Christianity, which have led to misunderstandings regarding his stance on religion.

A Call to Action for Scientific Integrity

The interview culminated in Dawkins urging a recommitment to valuing objective truth in science amidst rising relativism. As science grapples with an explosion of misinformation, he warns that without a clear distinction between science and subjective beliefs, we risk losing not only our understanding of the world but also the very fabric of scientific inquiry.

In a rapidly evolving landscape of beliefs, the question remains: How much longer will genuine scientific inquiry withstand the pressures of cultural relativism?