(more from the 2006 Alaska debate)
Palin and Creationism [Jonathan Adler]
One charge that’s rapidly making the rounds among Palin critics is that she’s a supporter of creationism and wants it taught in public schools. From what I’ve been able to find, however, this is not quite true. As detailed here, Gov. Palin stated in a 2006 gubernatorial debate that she has no objection to “teaching both” evolution and creation. After the debate, however, she clarified that she did not think the state should require the teaching of creationism or other anti-evolution theories alongside evolution in public schools. “I don’t think there should be a prohibition against debate if it comes up in class. It doesn’t have to be part of the curriculum,” she said. Beyond other statements reaffirming her belief in God, I have seen nothing that would indicate she supports making creationism part of school science curricula. (And, just in case anyone forgets my views on the subject, that’s a good thing, because there’s nothing scientific about creationism or “intelligent design”).
It seems she has a reasonable position. She’s pro-discussion on this one, too.
That seems fair to me. If the kids are likely to run into the discussion in reasonable contexts (media, news, etc.), then it’s a fair discussion in school.