Below is a synopsis of the film “The Magician’s Twin” by C.S. Lewis and how he tried to
explain some thoughts against scientism.
Film Title: The Magician’s Twin – C.S. Lewis and the Case Against Scientism
Film Synopsis: The film presents Lewis’s warning on the misuse of science to abolish man
and to undermine personal freedom and human dignity (CS Lewis Web, 2013)
If you get the chance and wanted to watch the film, this is available on
Youtube.com with the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPeyJvXU68k
Guide Questions:
1. What is scientism?
2. What is technocracy?
3. How is scientist related to “technocracy”
4. Was CS Lewis against science?
Points to Ponder:
CS Lewis was not against the science per se; rather, he was critical of the ideology of
scientism. He did not see the science being in a privileged position above other forms of
knowledge, exempt from criticism. Furthermore, although science and technology could
provide critical inputs, they were not sufficient by themselves as bases for decision-making.
5. The video contends that science and technology may be gaining increasing control over
our lives, potentially to the detriment of society. Can you cite specific situations in the
Philippines? Or in historical events of global scale?
Points to Ponder:
It may be helpful to differentiate among the fields of S&T. For example, one might argue
that the products of information technology are indeed ubiquitous and so deeply integrated
