Bad religion is arrogant, self-righteous, dogmatic and intolerant. And so is bad science. But unlike religious fundamentalists, scientific fundamentalists do not realize that their opinions are based on faith. They think they know the truth.

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This quote by Rupert Sheldrake critiques both bad religion and bad science, describing them as arrogant, self-righteous, dogmatic, and intolerant. Sheldrake draws a parallel between religious fundamentalism and a similar kind of rigid thinking found in some scientific circles. He points out that while religious fundamentalists openly express their faith, scientific fundamentalists often fail to recognize that their own strong beliefs are also based on a form of faith—faith in their interpretation of scientific truth.

The origin of the quote comes from Rupert Sheldrake, a biologist and author known for challenging conventional scientific views and exploring the limits of scientific knowledge. His work often highlights the assumptions underlying scientific theories and calls for greater openness and humility in scientific inquiry. This quote reflects Sheldrake’s concern about dogmatism in science, emphasizing that unquestioned certainty can be just as problematic as in religion.

At its core, the quote teaches that both science and religion can fall into extremes of rigidity and intolerance when they become too certain of their own truths. Sheldrake encourages a recognition that all belief systems, including science, involve elements of faith and that openness to doubt and inquiry is essential. His message invites humility and critical reflection, urging us to avoid blind certainty whether in science or religion.