Arguments Against Evolution In Schools
In many states the arguments against evolution being taught in public schools has persisted for a long time. Many people feel that if the scientific theories are being taught, then creationism should also be taught. After all neither side has ever been proved to be right or wrong and students have the right to know both sides.
Before Darwin most people subscribed to the theory of creationism without any thought. There really was nothing to contest it and those that spoke up against it would often find themselves ostracized or even worse. However, the scientific movement was well under way and it was only a matter of time before the tide would turn and an alternative view would be presented.
Darwin's work was mostly undertaken on his voyage on a British ship called the Beagle. The Beagle had been commissioned to sail to the Pacific and study the natural flora and fauna. Darwin was a civilian artist and scientist who spent many hours observing the plants and animals in the natural habitat. From his observations he was able to determine that birds on each of the islands had evolved in slightly different ways. This was the basis of his argument for the survival of the fittest.
Although Darwin did not understand genetics, he was able to observe the results of random genetic mutation. These mutations occur naturally through out all species. If a certain mutation allows an animal to prosper in a particular environment, those with the adaptation are more likely to prosper than those without. This notion has been exaggerated and in many cases is erroneously responsible for individual beliefs about evolution.
Despite his findings, Darwin was reluctant to publish his work. He was from a very religious family and knew that his work would be offensive to many of his family and friends. He was also very aware that it would present a whole new theory that would contradict the creationism theory that was dominant at the time. Darwin did not seek the limelight and was happy to live in obscurity at his English country home. By finally publishing his book, his name has been forever linked with the new theory.
From a scientific perspective the ideas of evolution are often misunderstood. It is basically the scientific term that refers to genetic changes over the years and generations. There is no specific goal in mind, other than survival. This in itself contradicts the development of humans as a group that has the ability to think, reason and shape their environment.
Theories such as those surrounding evolution are just theories. They have not been proved beyond any shadow of a doubt. It is this fact that causes a lot of discontent amongst those with strong religious beliefs. They feel that their theory of creationism is just as valid and should be taught along side the scientific ideas.
The arguments against evolution will continue until both sides find a way to reconcile their beliefs. Both are very committed to their own views and find it hard to consider the others perspective. In addition, the evidence given as proof is often not conclusive. There is always room for a personal interpretation of events and this adds more fuel to the controversy.
Before Darwin most people subscribed to the theory of creationism without any thought. There really was nothing to contest it and those that spoke up against it would often find themselves ostracized or even worse. However, the scientific movement was well under way and it was only a matter of time before the tide would turn and an alternative view would be presented.
Darwin's work was mostly undertaken on his voyage on a British ship called the Beagle. The Beagle had been commissioned to sail to the Pacific and study the natural flora and fauna. Darwin was a civilian artist and scientist who spent many hours observing the plants and animals in the natural habitat. From his observations he was able to determine that birds on each of the islands had evolved in slightly different ways. This was the basis of his argument for the survival of the fittest.
Although Darwin did not understand genetics, he was able to observe the results of random genetic mutation. These mutations occur naturally through out all species. If a certain mutation allows an animal to prosper in a particular environment, those with the adaptation are more likely to prosper than those without. This notion has been exaggerated and in many cases is erroneously responsible for individual beliefs about evolution.
Despite his findings, Darwin was reluctant to publish his work. He was from a very religious family and knew that his work would be offensive to many of his family and friends. He was also very aware that it would present a whole new theory that would contradict the creationism theory that was dominant at the time. Darwin did not seek the limelight and was happy to live in obscurity at his English country home. By finally publishing his book, his name has been forever linked with the new theory.
From a scientific perspective the ideas of evolution are often misunderstood. It is basically the scientific term that refers to genetic changes over the years and generations. There is no specific goal in mind, other than survival. This in itself contradicts the development of humans as a group that has the ability to think, reason and shape their environment.
Theories such as those surrounding evolution are just theories. They have not been proved beyond any shadow of a doubt. It is this fact that causes a lot of discontent amongst those with strong religious beliefs. They feel that their theory of creationism is just as valid and should be taught along side the scientific ideas.
The arguments against evolution will continue until both sides find a way to reconcile their beliefs. Both are very committed to their own views and find it hard to consider the others perspective. In addition, the evidence given as proof is often not conclusive. There is always room for a personal interpretation of events and this adds more fuel to the controversy.
