And the Debate goes on and on...!

The debate on Science versus Religion, as part of the finishing stages of the novel "The Power and the Glory" in the very first hour of the II BA English class, yesterday, was heated right from the start.

The topic for the debate was: Do you think religious belief is irrational, in the present era of scientific progress, where every work of nature and its manifestations, right from the wind mill to the cell phone has been attributed to Science? also, Do you feel Science is far better compared to religious beliefs, which divide and differentiate mankind?

While almost fifty per cent of the class took the side of 'Religion,' forty five per cent stood their stead for Science. A five per centime section, motley yet with vociferous views, stood their ground on neutral territory.

Many argued that religion was responsible for so many suppressions, sexism, and bigoted thoughts, while others equally defended their faith with gusto, saying religion still holds good in the present society.

Some argued that religious heads, who have to serve society, are serving themselves, and fighting for their salaries, while the majority of their folk live in dire straits. Another opinion was that religion has always been instrumental in shaping scientists and their views, but on the same line, religious thoughts are dynamic, while the laws of Science are static and universal in its appeal. As such, the concept of religion existing on diamtrically opposite poles to Science does not arise at all. Quoting Eintstein who had attributed his stupendous success in science to God, the speaker said that religious thoughts nourish science and hence cannot be dispensed with. We should take the sap from every religion and use them to nourish our lives and never be bigoted and fanatic in outlook, she said.

For a good perspective on the Religion versus Science debate, and for her thought-provoking and indepth analysis of the issue, Noeline Shirome gets the Prize for the best Speaker of the Day.