Posted on: Tuesday, July 31, 2001

Editorial
Creationism has no place in science classes

The state Board of Education would be buying itself nothing but distraction and controversy if it moves ahead on a proposal to teach creationism alongside evolution in its science curriculum. This idea should be a non-starter.

There is room for discussion of creationism in our schools, as part of a curriculum focused on philosophy or comparative religions. It is, after all, a powerful theory that animates one of our major religions.

But it is not science and thus has no place in a science classroom.

Evolution is scientifically demonstrable fact. Understanding how evolution works helps students understand the natural world around them.

Those who support the teaching of creationism as an alternative to evolution argue that both are "theories" on the origin of man. This confuses the matter.

The understanding of evolution has led to theories about the origin of man and other species, true. But the theories apply to how evolution has worked, not on whether it exists.

Creationism is essentially unverifiable from a scientific point of view. It is a religious theory — a powerful one, yes — but a religious theory that must be accepted on faith.

Faith and the religious beliefs of one particular persuasion are worthy topics for study and understanding. But they do not belong in science class.