2005.08.17
I have a radical thought: Let's teach science in science class!
I'm at my wit's end with this talk about teaching "intelligent design" in science class. I thought we taught science in science class, but I guess I was wrong. Since the zealots have lost all the previous battles, now they claim to have an "alternative scientific theory" to evolution.
However, they forgot to crack open their elementary school science books and look up "science" and "theory." To be a science, you actually have to go out in the real, natural world and study it. And, to have a scientific theory, you must have logical model that is be based on that evidence you when out and studied. Oh, and by the way, using the scientific method, doing some experiments, and having other scientific peers review them for legitimacy is good, too.
Intelligent design just basically says "Gee, we don't have all the answers to all this complexity, so God must have done it!" Hmm, that doesn't seem anything like science, does it?
Now, I don't have a problem with discussing controversial debates about evolution and creationism - and even intelligent design (if they want to call it that) - with our children in school. But, let's put it in the correct context. This isn't a scientific discussion. This is a philosophical discussion.
Eventually, I believe (yes, that's the right word) that religious leaders will re-interpret the Bible to allow for "newer" scientific theories including evolution. Hey, past religious institutions *eventually* accepted not only that the Earth is round, but it also revolves around the Sun! The question is, how many more centuries will it take for them to catch up?
13:50 Posted in politicking | Permalink | Comments (2) | Email this
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In Finland everyone is required to learn about evolution. Creationism, or Intelligent Design, is always mentioned as a competing theory, but is not considered a "science" or really discussed. You don't have to believe in evolution, but you do need to learn the principles of it.
On the other hand, in Finland religion is also a school subject with its own classes and exams. In this class, the world is viewed from Lutheran perspective. Students learn to also view the world from the perspective of other religions, and to respect all beliefs. Again, you are not required to believe anything, but you have to know the principles.
Now, religion classes you can skip with a note from parents. Kids who do not attend these classes end up attending a class about ethics and society. There is no alternative to science classes.
I always thought it was a pretty decent system.
Posted by: Mikko | 2005.08.17
Yeah, what's interesting the debate in the US is that the religious guys won't admit they are trying to put religion in schools.
Since the "founding fathers" already said we should separate church and state, they "can't" say that. Instead, they have to come up with some convoluted rationale, when really they want to teach Creationism in schools!
If that's what they want to teach their kids, then send them to private religious schools. :P
Posted by: Kristen | 2005.08.18
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