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Conclusions (Wikipedia)
The carbon 14 dating, which was intended to settle the issue conclusively, and did so for many scientists, has not quelled speculation about the possible authenticity of the shroud. Some scientists call for more radiocarbon tests of areas of the cloth containing the image, which the Holy See to date has refused. Given their expressed concerns about the destructive nature of current testing methods, it is unlikely that this resistance will change in the near future. Skeptics hold that the Vatican simply wants to avoid definite proof of forgery.
Devotion to the image of the Man of the Shroud has made argument about this issue particularly heated. Because of the deeply-held beliefs touched by this piece of cloth, complete resolution of the issue may never be reached to the satisfaction of all parties.
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© 2004 Daniel R. Porter, Bronxville, New York
