Separation of science and magic

In Malinowski's description of the Trobiband islander's gardening and agriculture he explains the difference between magic and science to them. The islanders have a clear knowledge of the natural course of growth, pests, weeding, and all other natural occurrences one must know in order to properly farm. Then there are also the "unaccountable and adverse influences" and "unearned" streaks of "fortunate coincidence". So as not to remain helpless in the face of these unknowns and chance occurrences, the islanders employ specific rituals and magic. They use both magic and science- with no confusions that one is the same as the other- in order to ensure the best crops. The article also goes on to explain the same distinctions in canoe building. 

Rationality, I don't believe, suggests a lack of faith in magical rites or religion. People who are smart and scientific, can still be religious. There only needs to be a separation between science and magic (similar to the separation of church and state in my opinion). I think most people need to believe in something that will protect them from, or at least explain, all the unknown elements that are still everywhere in our world.