Letter: Yes, science can create the benefits of religion

From Ria Maenhaut, Ghent, Belgium

David Robson wonders whether the spirituality of science could provide the perks of religion. When, years ago, I read Richard Dawkins’s The Ancestor’s Tale: A pilgrimage to the dawn of life, I felt a deep unity with all living things. I thought it funny that the world’s best-known atheist caused my spiritual experience.

Later, I watched the series Life on Earth (again) and when it showed a flatworm and a sea squirt, my heart was filled with reverence for these creatures. Science surely has given me the perks of religion!

Ed – For more on spiritual experiences inspired by science, see page 44