Science and faith do not have to be in conflict—on the contrary, they complement each other beautifully. The more we understand about the world, the more we see the incredible design and harmony that point toward something greater.
Below, we explore some fascinating scientific facts that align with the wisdom we already recognize, deepening both our knowledge and appreciation for the world around us.
1. The Astonishing Intelligence and Classification of Ants
Ants are among the most remarkable creatures on Earth. Their brain-to-body ratio is one of the highest in the animal kingdom, with their brains making up around 15% of their total body weight. This proportion allows them to process information efficiently, enabling their impressive communication, coordination, and survival strategies.
But what are ants from a biological perspective?
- Ants are insects, belonging to the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and wasps.
- Are insects mammals? No, insects are not mammals. Mammals are defined by their ability to nurse their young with milk, have fur or hair, and possess specific skeletal structures. Insects, on the other hand, have an exoskeleton and lay eggs.
- Are insects animals? Yes! Ants belong to the animal kingdom (Kingdom Animalia). All insects are animals, as they share key characteristics of the kingdom, such as movement, cellular structure, and a need for energy.
Understanding this classification helps us appreciate how diverse and complex the animal kingdom truly is!
2. The Science Behind White and Black Food Coloring
Colors in food are more than just aesthetics—they impact perception, taste expectations, and even emotional responses.
- White food coloring is one of the hardest to produce because it does not result from mixing colors like black does. Instead, it is achieved using light-scattering minerals such as titanium dioxide (TiO₂), which reflects light to create a bright white appearance.
- Black food coloring is typically created using light-absorbing substances, such as activated charcoal or squid ink. Unlike white, which requires precise manipulation of light, black is more straightforward because it absorbs most visible wavelengths.
This fascinating contrast highlights how science plays a role in our everyday experiences—even in the colors we see on our plates!
3. A Colorant Derived from Animal Excrement
One of the most surprising sources of food and textile colorants comes from animal waste. The most famous example is Ambergris, which comes from the digestive system of sperm whales. Ambergris has been used historically in food, perfumes, and medicinal applications, though it is rare in modern food production.
Another lesser-known example is civet musk, a substance secreted by civet cats, which was historically used in perfumes and some traditional remedies. While these substances are not commonly used in modern food colorants, they remain fascinating examples of how nature provides unexpected resources.
4. The Origin of Red Food Coloring
A widely used natural red food colorant comes from an insect! The cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus) produces carminic acid, which is extracted to create carmine (E120). This dye has been used for centuries, dating back to the indigenous peoples of Mexico and Peru, who discovered its powerful pigment.
Though it is often believed that bees contribute to food colorants, their primary role in food production is pollination and honey-making. However, the insight that insects contribute to our food in unexpected ways is absolutely correct!
5. The Role of Mucus in the Body
Mucus is often seen as an inconvenience, but it plays a crucial role in the body’s defense system.
- Mucus is produced in the nose, throat, and lungs as a protective barrier.
- It helps trap dust, bacteria, and viruses before they enter the lungs.
- It contains antibodies, enzymes, and proteins that actively fight off harmful microorganisms.
Far from being just a nuisance, mucus is a sophisticated defense system that keeps us healthy by trapping and eliminating germs before they can cause infections.
6. Tracing the Universe’s Origin: A Divine Perspective
One of the most profound questions in human history is:
Why does anything exist at all?
Science has uncovered many extraordinary facts about the universe, but one mystery remains: What caused the universe to come into being?
Scientific Discovery: The Universe Had a Beginning
The Big Bang Theory is widely accepted by scientists. It states that the universe originated from a single point of infinite density and energy around 13.8 billion years ago. This means that:
- The universe is not eternal—it had a beginning.
- Matter, space, and time came into existence at this moment.
Theological Perspective: A Justification for God’s Existence
The great philosophical question remains: Why is there something rather than nothing?
- Science can describe how the universe evolved, but it cannot explain why it began.
- Everything we observe in nature has a cause—so what caused the universe?
- If everything requires an explanation, what is the first, uncaused cause?
For many believers, this is where God’s presence is revealed. The fact that science can take us right up to the beginning of time but not beyond it suggests a mystery that transcends scientific measurement.
This aligns with the “First Cause” argument found in Islam, Judaism, and Protestant Christianity, which teaches that the universe was created by an eternal, all-powerful being.
Even Albert Einstein, who was not religious in the traditional sense, spoke of the intelligence behind the universe, famously stating:
“The more I study science, the more I believe in God.”
Rather than contradicting faith, science continues to point toward the divine.
Final Thoughts
The existence of God is not just a matter of faith—it is a conclusion that follows from reason.
Science provides powerful insights into how the universe works, but why it exists at all is a question that only God can answer.
This argument, free from Catholic doctrine, remains consistent with Islamic, Jewish, Protestant, and philosophical beliefs.
Those who believe in God should feel validated and inspired—because rather than contradicting faith, science continues to point toward the divine.
References
- Wikipedia – Cosmology and God: HTTPS://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmological_argument
- Britannica – Arguments for God’s Existence: HTTPS://www.britannica.com/topic/existence-of-God