Does the attainment of knowledge diminish religious authority?

Question

No, I’m not being provocative, I’m just curious about your opinions.

Answer 1

no.........shakes head....

God still runs things!!

Answer 2

That's the  beauty of Buddhism.  It's all about gaining knowledge and there is no religious authority, only guidance.

In many christian churches it appears that "faith" is far more revered than knowledge.  As a matter of fact, knowledge seems to be viewed as a direct threat to faith.  I'm not sure how intelligent people reconcile that.

Answer 3

Usually.

Whenever we learn something about the universe, it lessens the need to say "goddidit."

Answer 4

No, it doesn't necessarily follow, for as long as it has not developed into pride.  But then again this would only happen if knowledge has not transcended to become wisdom.  The search for wisdom has greatly been sidelined in our modern world. It is thought the going to school is just a matter of accumulating knowledge and skills.  It is only when a knowledgeable person realizes the purpose of what he knows and can do could he fathom the real meaning of life, and find his real role in relation to the greater plan of life.  People of wisdom are not puffed up with pride and they would understand the role of each one in society, including those of religious authorities.

Answer 5

Are you talking about God, or the church? For God: NO. Knowledge brings you closer to God. For the church: YES. Knowledge brings you closwer to the true meaning of God, and farther away from the teachings of the Church.  

Answer 6

Yes, because education allows people to analyse things from a rational stance.  Religion of any kind when analysed rationaly simply can not be backed up.

Answer 7

Study to shew thyself approved, so saith the Bible. I think it is every Christian's job to learn and use their mind. I can't speak for other religions, but I do know that Judaism puts a high priority on education as well.

Answer 8

Wouldn't  Western Society be a perfect example of just that?

Answer 9

No, many smart people believe and follow religious authority.

Answer 10

It diminishes all 'authority'.  Most people with well rounded and extensive educations see pastors, priests, medicos, scientists, political leaders and whatnot as their equals, not as some kind of authority that cannot be questioned.

Answer 11

Shut up, fireball.  

@ asker: you need to define religious authority because most of us do not have any rel authority so there will be none to diminish in the 1st place