Coimbra Physicist Carlos Fiolhais Warns Against Literal Bible Interpretations That Threaten Science and Faith
A senior Portuguese physicist has warned that extremist groups interpreting the Bible as a scientific textbook undermine both science and genuine religious belief. Carlos Fiolhais, a professor of theoretical physics at the University of Coimbra, makes this urgent case in his new book, Deus e a Ciência – Diálogos para a Salvação do Mundo, published by Editorial Dom Quixote on 22 September 2026.
The book argues that conflict between faith and science is avoidable — but only if both sides reject fundamentalist distortions. Fiolhais criticizes those who treat sacred texts as scientific manuals, calling such views not only scientifically false but theologically misguided.
Literal Biblical Interpretation Distorts Both Science and Religion
"There are groups — extremists, but with a religious basis — who want to interpret the Bible literally and claim it is a book of science," Fiolhais states. "These radicals transform the Bible into a 'totalitarian book' that pretends to hold all answers, making science unnecessary or merely a tool to confirm pre-existing dogma."
The physicist, who holds a doctorate in theoretical physics, argues such positions are fundamentally flawed: "They are mistaken, both from a scientific and a theological point of view." He emphasizes that serious theological tradition has always required contextual reading of scripture — not literalism.
Extremism Fuels Anti-Science Movements
Fiolhais connects this trend to broader anti-scientific movements in Portugal, including climate denial and anti-vaccine activism. "Some invoke religious arguments not found in the Bible to build anti-scientific narratives that shape public policy," he warns. "We owe our health, our prosperity, and our civilization to science. Many seem to have forgotten that."
Faith and Science Are Different, But Not Opposed
"Science and religion operate in different dimensions — they don’t compete for the same space," Fiolhais explains. "Humans are capable of holding rationality and faith simultaneously." He highlights how many historical theologians were also scientists, and notes that the last two Popes had formal scientific training.
The book references figures like Darwin, Einstein, and Hawking while exploring cosmology, evolution, and ethics, demonstrating how dialogue across disciplines enriches understanding.
Ethics Needs More Than Science
On artificial intelligence, Fiolhais notes that while science created AI, it cannot define morality. "The distinction between good and evil is not a scientific question — it’s a human, historical, and religious one," he says. "Religious tradition offers deep, centuries-old wisdom about ethics that science alone cannot provide."
"That’s why my book speaks of dialogues in the plural," he adds. "There are many sciences, and many religions. Each conversation matters."
Portugal’s Catholic Context
With approximately three-quarters of Portugal’s population identifying as Catholic, Fiolhais argues this debate is urgent and locally relevant. His views align with the official stance of the Catholic Church in Portugal, which has consistently emphasized complementarity. In May 2026, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed that faith and science are not enemies, and the Portuguese Bishops’ Conference held public discussions in June on AI and digital culture — underscoring the Church’s commitment to thoughtful dialogue.
