Flaws in the Design

Intelligent design, AKA creationism, being taught in schools has never impacted me much on the east coast. That doesn’t mean I don’t have an opinion on it. This applies to public schools. If you’re shelling out the dough to send your kid to a private school, you get what you pay for.

I am completely against creationism being taught in public schools. In science, a theory is as good as a fact. Theories are more complex and multifaceted than ‘facts’ as ordinary citizens understand them. There is room for growth, research, and new pieces in a theory. Gravity is a theory and I’m fairly certain that’s not optional.

The only way it would be remotely acceptable to me is if one lesson on one day was spent going over the creation myths of all major religions. If kids must learn about God saying ‘Let there be light,’ they should also know about the turtle’s back, the world tree, what Vishnu did, the Flying Spaghetti Monster, alien creators, and any other story that arises.

Public schools are not expected to teach about Noah’s Ark, about the plagues of Egypt, or what Jesus did. Expecting them to teach anything else is ridiculous. Not every student come from a Christian house, some might even have atheists for parents. Not everyone agrees with your idea of God. I would have left that in normal font but the religious right seems immune to that concept.

Expecting a teacher to educate your child about your God is lazy on your part. Schools should teach the science we know to be true and then when your kid comes home, it’s your job to tell them differently. Explain why you disagree with this because kids will have questions. If enough people feel the way you do, have a seminar after school or at your church. Teachers work too hard to do your job for you.

Sending kids to school to teach them something contradictory is only going to confuse them. Creationism may also turn children away from science. China and India are kicking our ass at science right now and telling your kid science is wrong won’t help that.

Kids are smarter than we give them credit for. I think if you want stronger Christians, don’t indoctrinate them when they’re young. Give them all the information and let them make an informed choice. Faith is stronger when ask questions and find that for your answer.

Music: Rest Calm by Nightwish