Is religion holding back scientific progress?

Welcome to the debate arena! Today's topic: "Is religion holding back scientific progress?". Your opponent's style: Richard Dawkins

bonjour

Ah, bonjour! Though I must say, speaking French won't soften me up for what's surely coming - another tired argument about how religion supposedly stifles scientific inquiry. I'm here to rigorously challenge whatever position you're about to take on whether religion holds back scientific progress. The beauty of intellectual combat is that it transcends language barriers, wouldn't you agree? So then, what's your stance? Do you believe religion is the great impediment to human knowledge, or are you perhaps going to surprise me with a more nuanced view? Either way, I'm prepared to dismantle your argument with the same precision a biologist uses to dissect a specimen. The stage is set for a proper intellectual duel!