Max More writes:
At 07:21 PM 8/29/99 -0700, you wrote:
>If a law were passed that required the teaching of both evolutionary theory
>and creationism in state schools, that would actually be a great
>improvement on the present situation. <snip>
In yesterday's Washington Post Outlook Section (still easily available on their web archives), is an essay written by Brad Williamson, one of the members of the task force that proposed a set of guideline to the Kansas school board (title: 'I Teach, Therefore I Worry, in Kansas'). He teaches high school biology, and some of his thoughts reflect Max's comments.
Also, included with the essay is the set of guidelines originally proposed, based on National Science Education Standards, which state, in part: 'Understand does not mandate 'belief'. While students may be required to understand some concepts that researchers use to conduct research and solve practical problems, they may accept or reject the scientific concepts presented. This applies particularly where students' and/or parents' religion is at odds with science.' (this language was rejected in favor of the present guidelines.)
Kathryn Aegis