No, religion, in general, does not inherently encourage people to deny science or lose critical thinking skills. It's important to avoid making broad generalizations about the relationship between religion and science, as it can vary among different religious beliefs and individuals.
Many religious individuals and communities embrace science and see it as a way to explore and understand the natural world. They recognize the value of scientific inquiry and its contributions to human knowledge and well-being. Numerous scientists throughout history and in the present day have also been people of faith.
However, conflicts can arise when scientific findings and interpretations clash with certain religious beliefs or doctrines. In such cases, some individuals may be more inclined to reject or question scientific evidence due to perceived conflicts with their religious teachings. This is not exclusive to religion but can happen in various ideological and belief systems.
It's important to note that science and religion operate in different realms. Science seeks to explain the natural world through empirical evidence and the scientific method, while religion addresses questions of meaning, purpose, ethics, and spirituality. While there may be areas of overlap and potential tension between the two, they can also coexist harmoniously for many people.
Critical thinking skills are not inherently lost due to religious beliefs. In fact, many religious traditions emphasize critical thinking, ethical reflection, and personal introspection. However, like any belief system, there can be instances where critical thinking is discouraged or overridden by dogma or adherence to specific interpretations.
Ultimately, the relationship between religion, science, and critical thinking is complex and can vary widely among individuals and religious traditions. It is important to approach these topics with nuance and avoid making sweeping generalizations that may not reflect the diverse perspectives and experiences of religious individuals.