The second virtue required for a fruitful dialogue between science and faith about the theory of evolution is, according to Ravasi, "humbleness, which is but the awareness of the limits" whereby "science and religion are not in contrast", because "serious thinking needs very different contributions". Hence the need to "overcome a certain theology of the past that rigidly bounded the fields of scientific research or used it only from an apologetic perspective", as well as "the arrogance of some scientists who mock those who persevere in their faith, considering it a wreck of the intellectual Palaeolithic age", before the "bright way" opened up by science. Finally, Ravasi asked theologians for "optimism towards science" the third virtue for the dialogue between science and faith that "is based on the very foundations of faith, which actually includes understanding", as stated by Augustine who thought that, "if faith is not thought it is not faith". "Science can purge religion of superstition, and religion can purge science of its false absolutes", concluded Ravasi, quoting John Paul II.” ” ” “
