Monday, September 6, 2010

Discussion with Colleagues

Hello all.
Here is a question that took way too long to think up. Hopefully it will generate some interest and thought.
In regards to the nature of science and teaching evolution, it is wrong to mention that some people believe in divine creation? Even though it is not "science" and has no scientific evidence, by not mentioning that belief is it telling those students that their belief in divine creation has no merit?

2 comments:

  1. I think it is better to be safe than sorry. If divine creation is mentioned and a child tells their parents about it, you may end up with some very upset parents. I don't think not mentioning divine nature will cause children to think that it has no merit. I think that as long as you mention that evolution is a theory, parents can have their own discussion with their child about what they feel is correct, and not be upset that evolution was taught.

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  2. This is a good question -- for the last several years, this issue has drawn a lot of public attention. In thinking about what you would or would not discuss, I would consider the appropriate venues for learning different kinds of information. Science class is clearly the right place to learn about science, but perhaps other venues are more appropriate for learning about non-scientific beliefs?

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