MAN’S SOUL

Wairarapa Times-Age, 15 August 1938, Page 7

MAN’S SOUL

SCIENCE AND THE SPIRIT. Science and the intellect alone cannot appease the hunger of the human soul, says Dr. Warren Du Pre Smith, head of the departments of geology and geography at the University of Oregon, writing in the “Christian Register.” Religion cannot ’be reduced entirely to reason and formulae. The man or woman who has no hopes dr beliefs except in those things that can actually be proven is deserving of real sympathy. As a geologist I call to mind reasons from the field of science which tend to confirm the values taught by religion. First, take the great principle of the conservation of energy and matter. Change we have all about us in the universe, but of evidenc'e of actual loss we have none. On this ground, therefore, it is not rational to think that the soul of man perishes. How do I know man has a soul? As a scientist I cannot prove the existence of my soul; but as a man I can feel it. Second, is the fact of transformation. There is no better-substantiated fact in the universe than this. Organisms are transformed, elements, worlds, solar systems, are all undergoing change, being broken down and built up again. The “everlasting hills” of the Psalmist exist only as a figure of speech. Third, the law of development—evolution. No reputable biologist or geologist doubts, the fact of evolution, though we may argue as to the methods by which evolution is consummated. Fourth, the need for food for

the body, exercise of the mental powers and cultivation of the spiritual side of our natures. Without food the body dies, without exercise the brain loses its power, without use the higher nature of man—call it soul, spirit, heart, or mere emotion —this side of man's nature atrophies. There are men who display almost unbelievable physical prowess, others who are marvels of intellectual ability, yet quite lacking in what we call personality. Let this be explained by the behaviourist as a mere matter of stimuli and reactions, and we still feel that the really vital difference is left unexplained.