Posted on 05/01/2008 11:35:33 AM PDT by Sopater
MIAMI, Fla. — The debate over evolution is evolving. Although federal courts have banned teaching "creation theory" or "intelligent design theory" in public schools, legislators in several states are seeking new ways to allow teachers to cast doubt on the theory of evolution.
The Florida House of Representatives passed a bill this week that will require schools to teach "critical analysis" of evolution.
On Tuesday Michigan introduced a similar "academic freedom" bill. Louisiana, Alabama and Missouri also have legislation under debate, although no state has adopted a law yet.
Opponents say these bills that allow the questioning of evolution are a smokescreen for teaching creationism or intelligent design.
Creation theory is the religious belief that God created all life. Intelligent design is the theory that some features of the universe and of living things are best explained by an "intelligent cause." While advocates contend intelligent design is a scientific theory, a federal judge in 2005 ruled that the theory is religious in nature and it is unconstitutional to teach it in public schools.
In Florida, Rep. Alan Hays, R-Umatilla, who sponsored the House bill, insists it would "not permit, nor authorize, nor allow the teaching of creationism or intelligent design" or any other religious theory.
(Excerpt) Read more at foxnews.com ...
My kids got taught the evolution crap then I taught them to think for themselves and they realize now God made it all.
“I’m sure those who are anti-science and pro-evolution will have plenty to say about this...”
LOL! Yeah, science says God made Eve out of the rib bone of a man. Hilarious.
They think they’re the only ones who should have any say about it. Even Darwin said he wasn’t sure about his own “theory”.
duh!
Evolutionary theory is in free-fall, and has been for a decade or two. Scientists have nothing to offer in its defense except for hand-waving, name-calling and red-herrings. It’s time to “teach the controversy,” as the ID people say. Evolutionists, put your money where your mouth is with respect to free or critical thinking, and let the captive students go!
My son will love this.
Define evolution.
The evolutionary process is solid scientific fact we can observe over the last 59-200 years; Darwinism (long term cross-species evolution) is a scientific guess, so science goes with it.
Science cannot answer the question of where life started on our planet/ universe, so religion has a right to assert itself to resolve that question.
“Those who fear criticism of the ToE are truely anti-science. Science welcomes logical and analytical criticism as it tests a theory to either strengthen it, modify it, or dismiss it all together.”
Although the contemporary scientist in the modern day Universities must exclude God or face severe castigation.
“Science cannot answer the question of where life started on our planet/ universe, so religion has a right to assert itself to resolve that question.”
Or anything else for that matter. Given that logic, there is no sound arguement against teaching every religion, cult, booster club or wild-eyed man on the street’s idea of how we came to be.
I don't know where you get that from.
I homeschool. I’m going to teach ABOUT evolution, but I damn well won’t exclude the concept of the Creator.
The evos that deny that the theory is being used to promote atheism are simply being dishonest. Just like leftists who say they love America and its culture.
And like leftists, they use the same tactics of silencing through intimidation anyone with an opposing viewpoint.
I have no problem with the scientist knocking each other in the dirt to fight this out. I do have a problem with students being offered an a' la carte science curriculum.
Accepted scientific theories should be taught, otherwise the students can become confused as to what is scientific theory.
Science welcomes logical and analytical criticism as it tests a theory...
Only when there is something to hang a theory on. ID has nothing to bring to the party but trying to poke holes in Evo, and that is not how science is done. Any theory has to stand on its merits. ID has none. ID is trying to discredit Evo, and win by default.
More like 120 years, but that's science.
How do you include faith into the scientific method? And which particular faith of science should get play in public school?
Even if evolution isn’t taught.
I would be interested in seeing the curriculum for this "new" critical thinking approach.
Anybody here want to share with us exactly what would be taught under this bill?
Wrong.
Many Evo's are religious, because they do not find a conflict. However, using "God did it" does not advance science, discovery or thought. It stifles it.
How about a critical analysis of Christianity?
Or, a critical analysis of the GOP theocracy?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.