Texas Forges Compromise Over Creationism

WorldNet Daily yesterday reported that public schools in Texas will no longer be able to teach only that science coursework that supports evolution, but must now also provide their students with arguments critical of the Darwinian theory.

    Public school students in Texas will be called on to "analyze, evaluate and critique" evidence that undermines Darwin's theory of evolution as well as evidence that supports the belief man and all other modern life has developed from primordial sludge, following a vote by state officials.

    "Texas has sent a clear message that evolution should be taught as a scientific theory open to critical scrutiny, not as a sacred dogma that can't be questioned," said John West, senior fellow at the Discovery Institute in Seattle, which had argued before the Texas Board of Education for students to have the right to review all of the evidence, not just what evolutionists want presented.

    The decision initially was praised by pro-evolution factions for the board's decision to remove the guidance that students should study the "strengths and weaknesses" of scientific evidence. However, West told WND the replacement policy now includes requirements for students to "analyze, evaluate and critique" all such provisions in evolution, such as the concept of common ancestry and natural selection.

It seems to me that an honest and open discussion is the best way to approach any such issue, with both sides clearly presented for critical evaluation.

 

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