159 Faith and science : "Though faith is above reason, there can
never be any real discrepancy between faith and reason. Since the
same God who reveals mysteries and infuses faith has bestowed the
light of reason on the human mind, God cannot deny himself, nor can
truth ever contradict truth." (Dei Filius 4: DS 3017)
"Consequently, methodical research in all branches of knowledge,
provided it is carried out in a truly scientific manner and does
not override moral laws, can never conflict with the faith, because
the things of the world and the things of faith derive from the
same God. The humble and persevering investigator of the secrets of
nature is being led, as it were, by the hand of God in spite of
himself, for it is God, the conserver of all things, who made them
what they are." (GS 36 ' 1)
2293 Basic scientific research, as well as applied research, is a
significant expression of man's dominion over creation. Science and
technology are precious resources when placed at the service of man
and promote his integral development for the benefit of all. By
themselves however they cannot disclose the meaning of existence
and of human progress. Science and technology are ordered to man,
from whom they take their origin and development; hence they find
in the person and in his moral values both evidence of their
purpose and awareness of their limits.
2294 It is an illusion to claim moral neutrality in scientific research and its applications. On the other hand, guiding principles cannot be inferred from simple technical efficiency, or from the usefulness accruing to some at the expense of others or, even worse, from prevailing ideologies. Science and technology by their very nature require unconditional respect for fundamental moral criteria. They must be at the service of the human person, of his inalienable rights, of his true and integral good, in conformity with the plan and the will of God.
2295 Research or experimentation on the human being cannot legitimate acts that are in themselves contrary to the dignity of persons and to the moral law. The subjects' potential consent does not justify such acts. Experimentation on human beings is not morally legitimate if it exposes the subject's life or physical and psychological integrity to disproportionate or avoidable risks. Experimentation on human beings does not conform to the dignity of the person if it takes place without the informed consent of the subject or those who legitimately speak for him.