A further note on the evolution debate


There are creationists who also accept the truth of evolution:

The problem with the origins controversy is the way the terms of the debate are set up. Traditionally, this topic has been viewed as ‘evolution’ vs ‘creation.’ And now, it’s being seen as ‘evolution’ vs ‘design’ as promoted by this conference. In other words, ‘evolution’ is being set up in a ‘no-win situation.’ This popular ‘either/or’ approach to origins blinds us from recognizing that evolutionists can believe in a Creator and in intelligent design.

There is nothing wrong logically with this position, but it is not likely to satisfy the main body of anti-evolutionists. This is because they are not looking for a way of reconciling a belief in a creator God and evolution, or "religion" and "science." As the "Wedge document" clearly shows, they want to discredit science wholly and as it is, because it is a threat to their way of seeing the world -- indeed, to their way of life. That is why this debate is so crucial.

It has long puzzled me that it seems to be only in this country that evolution stirs up such opposition. (Although now we find that it is also a big issue in Turkey, of all places.) The best explanation I have been able to come up with so far is that there is a sizable part of the American people, and has been for several generations, that needs to fight science in order to feel secure. Strange, but true.

(And if you think that today's "intelligent design" advocates are entirely free of connections with the old-fashioned religious "creationists," look here.)

Posted: Sun - May 8, 2005 at 07:16 PM           | |

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