Board: Science by ‘design’

Editor:

In the 16th century, astronomer Galileo Galilei commented, “The Bible teaches us how to go to heaven, not how the heavens go.” Harvard’s 19th-century biologist, Asa Gray, stated, “I do not approve either the theology or the science of those who are prompt to invoke the supernatural to … cover our ignorance of natural causes.”

Fast-forward to 21st century Texas, where the religious right is dragging us back to the Dark Ages when the church was the state and science was heresy. Unfortunately for Texas, these groups and their allies on the Texas State Board of Education have forced their ideology on everyone by censoring the content of public school science and health textbooks and altering curriculum standards.

Evolution vs. “intelligent design” is their current wedge issue in the phony war between science and faith. In 2005, a federal judge ruled that “intelligent design” was the same as creationism. Public education must prepare students to meet 21st century challenges and the board’s duty is to educate, not proselytize.

Furthermore, the board must honor all beliefs by leaving religious instruction to families and congregations. The United States of American is a democracy, not a theocracy. Let’s keep it that way.

Candace Flenniken King

Schertz resident