Abstract

As science has come under attack by religious fundamentalists, while the manner of thinking required by faith-based religions is attacked by scientific (rationalist) thinkers, the question arises whether these two powerful forces can peacefully co-exist, and perhaps even engage in successful dialogue. Using insights provided by Leibniz and Spinoza, this paper provides historical precedent for reconciling two disparate approaches to the questions of ethics: reason and religious faith. Completing this analysis is an assessment of the possibility of productive interaction between the camps.