I want to applaud Jay Mathews for his honesty and common sense in his Jan. 12 column, “Santorum’s good idea for science class.” There is a difference between teaching evolution objectively and teaching intelligent design. The former would allow students a stronger, more informed understanding of evolutionary theory and the questions that have been raised about it, while the latter would result in making intelligent design a political football. As the main institutional proponent of intelligent design, we do not endorse requiring it be taught in public schools. We do support the academic freedom to teach and learn evolution objectively.
If a majority of Americans supports teaching evolutionary theory objectively, how then should it be done? This is a worthwhile question. Current high school biology textbooks would need revision. But since educational research shows that the biggest influence on learning is the teacher, we need educators who understand what is at stake for the learners entrusted to them and who are willing to do what it takes to truly teach objectively.
Loading...
Comments