“Dogmatism and sectarianism must go, for Almighty God had made the mind free,” said Thomas Jefferson more than 200 years ago (See Edwin S. Gaustad’s book on Thomas Jefferson). For decades, dogmatists have tried to convince us that it’s okay to teach evolution. They insist it should be questioned. They also want the “theory” of creationism included alongside evolution in the school curriculum.

Evolution was not the result of dogmatism. Instead, it was the result of scientific investigation. Nevertheless, there is some evidence that evolution is taught using dogmatic teaching techniques. That is the topic of another discussion topic.

Creation Theory

Creation theory has a place in school, but not as a feasible option to the concept of evolution. Creation theory, or ideas like intelligent design, are not results of scientific investigation. They are rather myth or religious ideology. There are many stories of creation drawn from various cultures around the world. These do not constitute scientific thinking.

Evolutionary Theory

The theory of evolution as we know it today resulted from very careful field observations. It involved collecting specimens, measurement, cataloging, and analysis. For example, Alfred Russell Wallace was a contemporary of Charles Darwin. He was the first to recognize the idea and mechanism of evolution. Wallace was a prodigious collector.

He sent to London 125,660 specimens of plants, animals, insects, and birds of the islands of the East Indies. He spent 8 years in the East Indies. From that location, he came to an understanding of evolution. He wrote it down in a paper and sent it off to Charles Darwin for his critique! He carefully investigated the organisms living in the islands of the East Indies. Only then did the idea suddenly flash upon him. Wallace realized the idea of the survival of the fittest. Individuals removed by these checks must be, on the whole, inferior to those that survived.

Wallace went on to formulate his idea, and send it onto Darwin. Teaching students about evolution is the purview and responsibility of science educators. Trying to equate the Biblical story of creation with evolutionary theory not only denigrates science, but religion as well. Science and religion can and should co-exist.

For more information on Wallace, you might want to look at Simon Winchester’s book, Krakatoa: The Day the World Exploded.

AI Suggestions

(- Consider providing a clearer definition of key terms such as “dogmatism,” “creation theory,” and “evolutionary theory” to aid comprehension.

– Include citations or references for claims made, particularly regarding the teaching methods used in evolution education.

– Avoid overgeneralizing statements about all dogmatists or all forms of creation theory; more nuanced explanations could enhance the credibility of the argument.

– Adding a brief conclusion or summary could help reinforce the main points discussed and guide the reader to the intended takeaway.

– Ensure smooth transitions between sections to improve the overall flow of the post.