In other words, the Church acknowledges Science as the higher authority.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
The Church does not pretend to be scientists. It teaches based upon what science tells it.
If we take science as our sole guide, if we accept and hold fast that alone which is verifiable, the old theology must go.
Admittedly, the body of scientists, as a whole, does uphold the authority of science over the lay public. It controls thereby also the process by which young men are trained to become members of the scientific profession.
Admittedly, scientific authority is not distributed evenly throughout the body of scientists; some distinguished members of the profession predominate over others of a more junior standing.
Science has a simple faith, which transcends utility. It is the faith that it is the privilege of man to learn to understand, and that this is his mission.
Science is an integral part of culture. It's not this foreign thing, done by an arcane priesthood. It's one of the glories of the human intellectual tradition.
Indeed, in view of its function, religion stands in greater need of a rational foundation of its ultimate principles than even the dogmas of science.
Science knows only one commandment - contribute to science.
To me there has never been a higher source of earthly honor or distinction than that connected with advances in science.
All Church power is, therefore, properly ministerial and administrative. Everything is to be done in the name of Christ, and in accordance with his directions.