[Originally posted 5/24/2007]
Skepticism is one of the most valuable tools in science. Continual questioning of ideas and results is a means of overturning long-held assumptions and uncovering new ideas.
Being a skeptic is an art in itself. It doesn't mean blindly doubting everything that is asserted. It does mean to scrutinize all ideas and see if they meet the rigorous tests of scientific methodology. This is very different from the meaning of a skeptic in theology where the term refers to those who do not affirm a religious faith.
A skeptic in science will continually review the credibility of a scientific result or idea--until it is demonstrated through independent corroboration and verified data. Progress in science always builds on our current understanding. New results are seldom if ever derived in a vacuum but depend on the great wealth of understanding that has been accumulated through the ages. If we were to wait to build only on thoroughly verified ideas, science would progress too slowly. If we were to build too fast on untested ideas, the shaky foundation would soon collapse. Skepticism provides a healthy check and balance whereby we can proceed as rapidly as possible and learn of a misstep as soon as possible.
The process of analyzing a scientific idea skeptically often reveals valuable insight. It can show us where the arguments are weak and need to be strengthened. It can offer new ideas. It can increase our confidence that what passes is accurate.
As Christians, a healthy skepticism in science is an important part of our process of integrating science and faith. We cannot blindly accept every assertion nor can we simply doubt every inconvenient truth.