Science and Religion in Colonial America: The Early Days (Critical Essay)

Abstract The use of science to validate biblical accounts or prove the existence of God began in the United States with the publication of Cotton Mather's The Christian Philosopher. Cotton Mather is generally remembered for his role in the Salem Witch Trials but his contribution in bringing science to Colonial America is not well known. Mather had an extensive library, was a member in the Royal Society of London and had contacts with scientists in the great learning centers of Europe. Mather was perfectly positioned to bring scientific ideas to the common man in Colonial America. This overlooked book continues to be useful today to both scientists and religious leaders in understanding the origins of the Creation Science/Intelligent Design controversy in the United States.