The Horrors of Religion (Evolution)

by Carl, Sunday, September 14, 2008, 15:47 (6075 days ago) @

George and I have similar views about religion, but I am more optimistic about coexistence between science and religion than he is. In fact, I see no alternative. In the US, around 90% of the people believe in God, but less than 50% "believe in" evolution. Religion is not going away. It rebounds every few generations. If it came down to a street fight, the science gang would lose. Science is not going to go away either. It will continue regardless of the environment, but a friendly environment would allow faster progress. Stem cell research in the US is an example.
Regarding ID in the classroom, I say teach the unanswered questions about evolution and use it as an opportunity to teach science philosophy. To the extent that there is legitimate debate about current concepts in evolution, bring them out and discuss them openly instead of hiding them. Discuss the origin of life question, Cambrian explosion and gaps in the fossil record, and give the scientific perspective on these unanswered questions.
Three reasons for teaching science in high school are 1) identify the next generation of scientists and begin their training, 2) teach some rudimentary science to the others so they integrate into modern society and 3) build public support for scientific programs. The students who will become scientists will be fine regardless. The last two reason will be best achieved if religious students are not alienated. Don't make it science vs. religion. This can best be done by compromising with the community as much as possible without diluting the science. 
Of course, I speak from the US point of view, where we have separation of church and state. I realize the situation in the UK is different.
I was encouraged by dwh's describing a kinder form of Christianity in his acquaintances. The Christians I meet seem to be of the born-again variety, who's attitude is "I don't make the rules. Everyone has the same choices available." But, religion in the US is more of a private matter, so I just may not be talking to the more mellow variety of Christians.
Bbella: "I can prove whatever I choose to believe with whatever I choose as evidence to prove it with." Insightful.