Revelation as Scientific in its Method:
Science, Diversity, Consultation, and Learning in Action

by Stephen R. Friberg

Abstract: This paper is an exploration of Shoghi Effendi's statement that Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation is "scientific in its method," starting from the various ways that scientific methods are implemented and including perspectives from the philosophy of science. We examine the role of diversity in achieving scientific objectivity and escape from bias, and consider how the Bahá'í process of action, reflection, consultation, and study is consistent with modern understandings of the scientific method. Because this form of learning in action can be used by everybody, and because ethical, moral, and spiritual practices are part of its way of doing things, it provides a powerful extension of science and its methods that is available to everyone and allows ready integration of spiritual values into the process.