[ClearCase_guy]

I confess that I did not go to the link. But it seems to me that this issue is not about Freedom of Religion or Freedom of Speech. It seems like its about forcing someone to speak in your behalf even when they feel that you are not worthy of support.

Maybe the Professor should write letter of recommendation like: "Joe does not have the makings of a scientist. He is incapable of logical thought and does not adequately recognize scientific proof versus wishful-thinking. He cannot grasp complex data and jumps to unwarranted conclusions far too rapidly. I suspect he is fit for a low-level clerical job with the government, but nothing more stenuous."

Now, I consider myself a Creationist (or at least an anti-evolutionist) but if this Professor feels as he does, then I think he would be justified in writing such a scathing letter. He is being kind if he is attempting to dodge that task.

[Dark Knight]

>>The Web page advises students seeking a recommendation to be prepared to answer the question: "How do you think the human species originated?" <<

Since the biologist is one of the required recommendations for medicine he is using evolution as a litmus test. He is not asking for a person's understanding of the Theory of Evolution, he is asking for their beliefs on the origin. But of course he is only referring people to his website, he does not want a public debate on the issue...I guess that's free speech without talking.

DK

[tallhappy]

I confess that I did not go to the link. But it seems to me that this issue is not about Freedom of Religion or Freedom of Speech. It seems like its about forcing someone to speak in your behalf even when they feel that you are not worthy of support.

You have to go to the link. It is clear that what he does is ask them personally outside class if they ask him for a letter.

It answered my question about how would he even know what they believe.

If students were standing up in class making this an issue, then there'd be a good reason not to reccommend them.

As it is in this case it is simple bigotry, plus more.

[OperationFreedom]

No, this is an issue of BELIEF. You mistakenly see it as an issue of knowledge and understanding of a theory.

[vaudine]

I couldn't access the link, but think your analysis may be in error. While nobody may be legally entitled to a recommendation, it would certainly be discriminatory if a prof. withheld a recommendation solely because of a students religious beliefs. Did he downgrade the student because of his beliefs?

Suppose that a student used good scientific methods but simply equated differently and thus came to another conclusion from the prof. There are several highly placed profs. and scientists who come to the conclusion that the Creation theory is supported.

This arrogant prof. is essentially saying he is right, period. Speaking of legality (everything today seems to boil down to that) is a prof. entitled to give bad grades and refuse recommendations on the basis that a student does not share his personal beliefs?

Good grief!

vaudine