Some critics argue that the theory of evolution functions like a religion because it goes beyond purely empirical facts, becoming a comprehensive worldview with a set of unverified axioms.

Evolution’s Leap of Faith: When Science Mirrors Religion

Some critics argue that the theory of evolution functions like a religion because it goes beyond purely empirical facts, becoming a comprehensive worldview with a set of unverified axioms. In their view, evolution requires an act of faith—similar to religious belief in the unseen—instead of relying solely on proven observations.

One source notes that the theory of evolution is described not merely as a scientific explanation, but as "a worldview, a way of perceiving the world—this religious (specifically, pagan) concept of the origin of the world permeates all fields of scientific knowledge, assuming as an axiom (dogma) that the world contains within itself the mechanism for its self-development..." (source: link txt). This emphasizes that acceptance of evolutionary theory often boils down to faith in certain dogmas, functionally similar to religious beliefs.

Furthermore, the same source states: "This logical leap is the act of faith. Faith in evolution" (source: link txt). Thus, it is asserted that because the evidence for evolution relies on assumptions and is not backed by direct observation, its acceptance depends on faith rather than inevitable scientific confirmation.

Additionally, it is added that if evolution were an observable fact, it would be incorrect to speak of it as a religious teaching; however, its invisibility and unprovability transform it into a system of beliefs that corresponds to the definition of religious faith—"confidence in the unseen" (source: link txt).

Critics also point out that the theory of evolution is often used to substantiate a materialistic worldview that rejects the involvement of God in the creation of the world. One source states: "The theory of evolution, by venturing far beyond scientific knowledge—into the realm of faith—sanctions the abandonment of God in the name of science" (source: link txt). This underscores that for some, the theory of evolution serves as an alternative to traditional religious views, offering its own "dogma" regarding the origin of life and the universe.

Thus, the arguments underlying the view of some people who equate the theory of evolution with religion can be summarized as follows:
1. Evolution is presented as a holistic system of worldview that contains unverified assumptions and axioms, making it analogous to religious dogmas.
2. Acceptance of evolutionary theory requires an act of faith, as many of its elements cannot be directly observed or empirically confirmed.
3. As a system that "scientifically proves" the materialistic origin of life, evolution essentially justifies the rejection of the supernatural, thereby functioning similarly to religion.

Supporting citation(s):
"Numerous purely scientific evidences can be cited for the inadequacy of the theory of evolution — ... The theory of evolution is a worldview, a way of perceiving the world—it is a religious (specifically, pagan) concept of the origin of the world, which permeates all fields of scientific knowledge, assuming as an axiom (dogma) that the world contains within itself the mechanism of its self-development and self-improvement, operating for millions and billions of years." (source: link txt)

"This logical leap is the act of faith. Faith in evolution." (source: link txt)

"If evolution were an empirical fact observed in nature, it would be incorrect to speak of evolutionary teaching as religious. But precisely because evolution is an unseen and unprovable phenomenon, it quite fits the classical apostolic definition of faith—'confidence in the unseen'..." (source: link txt)