Intelligent design

For those of you who do not live in the U.S. and for those who do but have not picked up a paper in months, intelligent design has become a hot topic in U.S. schools recently. So, what is intelligent design? According to the Wikipedia, "Intelligent Design is the controversial assertion that certain features of the universe and of living things exhibit the characteristics of a product resulting from 'an intelligent cause or agent, as opposed to an unguided process such as natural selection'. In making this claim its proponents are taking the philosophical position of teleology, the supposition that there is purpose or directive principle in the works and processes of nature. Adherents argue that any phenomenon or feature that cannot be fully explained by conventional science is evidence of supernatural intervention, and claim that Intelligent Design stands on equal footing with, or is superior to, current scientific theories regarding the origin of life and the origin of the universe."

School boards across the country are debating whether or not to let intelligent design into the same science classroom that discusses evolution. Last week was a great moment for opponents of intelligent design. Almost every single member of Dover, Pennsylvania's school board, which had ordered that intelligent design be mentioned in science classrooms, was voted out. Pat Robertson, a well-known conservative Christian, was outraged by the school board's decision. Robertson responded on his daily television show, "The 700 Club," by saying: "I'd like to say to the good citizens of Dover: if there is a disaster in your area, don't turn to God, you just rejected Him from your city. And don't wonder why He hasn't helped you when problems begin, if they begin. I'm not saying they will, but if they do, just remember, you just voted God out of your city. And if that's the case, don't ask for His help because he might not be there."

This morning I heard an interview with Bernadette Reinking, one of the new Dover school board members, on NPR's "Morning Edition." Ms. Reinking was incredibly well-spoken and suggested a very viable solution to the intelligent design/evolution debate. She says that intelligent design should be taught in an elective religion or philosophy course rather than in a science class. Ms. Reinking supports her solution by explaining that intelligent design cannot be scientifically proven and is better discussed as a part of Christian faith. She would like to see intelligent design critically discussed in a class that covers all religions and philosophies.

Well, Bernadette Reinking, I would love to shake your hand. I think that this is a great way to allow intelligent design in schools without forcing it upon all students. I hope that other school boards follow suit.