The Conflict on Genesis: Building an Integral Bridge between Creation and Evolution

Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: http://www.springerlink.com

Y

7

Social History; Conflict; Educational Change; Science Curriculum; Religion; Sciences; Beliefs; Scientific Concepts; Educational Philosophy; Epistemology; Teaching Methods; Religious Factors; Role of Religion; World Views; Scientific Enterprise; Science Education; Science Instruction; Science and Society; Educational Policy; Scientific Principles; Evolution; Controversial Issues (Course Content); Educational Environment; Creationism; Christianity

10.1007/s11422-009-9250-1

1871-1502

In this paper I respond to Long's paper in which he uses an ethnographic snapshot of a rally of scientists against the perceived "dumbing down" effect of the new Answers in Genesis Museum in Kentucky to raise educational concerns about the effects of creationist influence on the science curriculum in American schools. In my response I contextualise the conflict between creationists and evolutionists in the history of the Christian Churches and in my own personal history. Furthermore I illustrate how historically there been multiple versions and interpretations of the creation story in the past resulting in much conflict and angst. Finally I suggest an integral perspective that allows us to envisage a curriculum that presents multiple perspectives to students as a possible alternative to epistemological narrow-mindedness.

As Provided

2010

EJ873785