What does NOMA stand for?

NOMA stands for Nonoverlapping Magisteria, a concept introduced by the evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould. It refers to the idea that science and religion occupy separate domains of teaching authority and inquiry. According to this framework, science addresses questions about the natural world and how it operates (such as the laws of physics and biological evolution), while religion deals with questions of moral meaning and ethical values. The term emphasizes that there should be no conflict between science and religion, as they are concerned with different aspects of human experience.

This understanding highlights the importance of respecting both domains, acknowledging that they do not interfere with one another. This approach is particularly relevant in discussions about the relationship between scientific discoveries and religious beliefs, advocating for a dialogue that respects the limitations and expertise of each field.