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Evolution Education Under Fire in Texas

New textbooks could challenge theory, shape US curriculum

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Mar 23, 2009 9:56 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Texas’ Board of Education votes this week on whether to teach a science curriculum that challenges evolution—and the result could affect schools across the US, the Wall Street Journal reports. Because Texas is such a huge market, textbook writers often design national material based on state standards. “This is the most specific assault I’ve seen against evolution and modern science,” said a science-education advocate.

The chairman of the state’s board of education, who believes God created the Earth some 10,000 years ago, says if the curriculum takes effect, he’ll make sure textbooks point out fossil and cell evidence he believes undermines the idea of evolution. Textbooks “have to say that there’s a problem with evolution—because there is,” he said. “We need to be honest with the kids.”

Board members talk during a break in a hearing by the Texas Board of Education, Jan. 21, 2009, in Austin.
Board members talk during a break in a hearing by the Texas Board of Education, Jan. 21, 2009, in Austin.   (AP Photo)
Board member Barbara Cargill questions a witness during a hearing by the Texas Board of Education, Jan. 21, 2009, in Austin.
Board member Barbara Cargill questions a witness during a hearing by the Texas Board of Education, Jan. 21, 2009, in Austin.   (AP Photo)
Members talk during a break in a hearing by the Texas Board of Education, Jan. 21, 2009, in Austin.
Members talk during a break in a hearing by the Texas Board of Education, Jan. 21, 2009, in Austin.   (AP Photo)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 12 comments
Doctor-Zaius
Apr 1, 2009 12:49 PM CDT
YES!
freethemall
Mar 25, 2009 3:46 AM CDT
kansas1964, if somebody challenged the germ theory of disease as flawed, and wanted to have the evil spirits theory of disease given equal time, would you support that? If not, why not?
scottaco
Mar 23, 2009 9:35 AM CDT
The "God Did It" belief system is astounding to me. The day my children get kicked out of class for laughing at such a preposterous notion, I'll have to take a serious look at home schooling.

Some push for legislative action
Dallas Morning News

State rep. pushes for bill allowing master's in science for creationism
Fox News

US • Science

 
education • evolution • Texas • creationism • God • intelligent design • curriculum

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