Relational and Contextual Reasoning: A Way Toward Overcoming Cognitive Conflict Specifically Between Religion and Science
Helmut K. Reich
Prof. Rutherford University, Switzerland
ABSTRACT
Worldwide, there exists much strife and even violence, which results not infrequently from differing, even confrontational views of the world and beyond. It is suggested that Relational and Contextual Reasoning (RCR) can overcome certain cognitive conflicts, specifically those caused by applying inappropriately classical binary logic (only “black” or “white” exists; it has to be the one or the other). After an introduction, the present meaning of cognitive conflict is defined, epistemology as understood here is determined, and RCR with its trivalent both-and-logic (“black” is more pertinent in one context, “white” in another) is explicated. An empirical study of religious vs. scientific worldviews is presented. It shows that knowledgeable respondents capable and willing to apply confirmed RCR were less likely to experience cognitive conflict than respondents incapable or unwilling to do so. After a presentation of the 8-step RCR heuristic, it is applied to (i) science vs. religion /theology, and more briefly to (ii) well- being: economic, communicational and cultural globalisation local autonomy, (iii) “monolithic” nation-state vs. human right to self-determination, and (iv) preserving rigidly one’s identity vs. meeting everybody’s expectations. In all cases RCR- ways are indicated, which are likely to lessen the danger of cognitive conflict.