A History of the Warfare of Science with Theology in Christendom

"A History of the Warfare of Science with Theology in Christendom" by Andrew Dickson White is a seminal two-volume work that delves into the prolonged struggle between science and religious orthodoxy throughout Western history. White, co-founder and first president of Cornell University, provides a comprehensive account of how religious dogma frequently stood in opposition to scientific advancements, from the age of Galileo to Darwinian evolution. He posits that this clash hindered intellectual progress and societal development, but also acknowledges the instances where religion fostered the growth of scientific understanding. Through detailed historical analysis, White underscores the necessity of maintaining a clear separation between theological beliefs and empirical investigation for the unhindered progress of knowledge.