Re: [asa] The term Darwinism

Thanks to all of you for this thread and the comments. I am very much in support of a publication of this type. The ASA can and does take a position--on two points: its statement of faith and integrity in science. These are broad, all-encompassing points and there is much to say on both. I believe that a publication can be done that is based on these points, while being respectful and acknowledging what and where the differences of opinion are.

As I have been repeatedly saying, integrity in science doesn't mean that everything that scientists believe is true or is unchanging. But it does mean that we must accurately reflect what the current understanding of the scientific community is. Skepticism of such an understanding is a key part of the normal scientific process--but that skepticism must be vetted by the scientific community before it gets the status of an "honest disagreement" or a "climate of controversy." Similarly, our statement of faith compels us to accurately reflect the central tenets of Christianity while respecting the differences among us. Any proposed integration of science and Christianity that relies on a modification of scientific understanding or on a departure from the basic understanding of Christian faith, is probably on the wrong track.

If we were to draft a publication that clearly states the current scientific understanding of human origins (perhaps as a subset of a broader topic) with a chapter or two that summarizes where there are open issues, and articulates what the conflicts are, then it could be something that ASA endorses as an organization.

I would love to meet with anyone on this list who is planning to attend our annual meeting and who would be interested in this project. What would be a good time for everyone? Maybe Saturday night at 9pm?

Randy

  ----- Original Message -----
  From: Keith Miller
  To: asa@calvin.edu
  Sent: Monday, July 06, 2009 8:51 PM
  Subject: Re: [asa] The term Darwinism

  For what it is worth, I agree with Allan that it is time to discontinue the ASA publication "Teaching Science in a Climate of Controversy". I was not in favor of its approach and language when it was first published, and I don't think that it is particularly helpful given the current public debates over K-12 science education.

  I am not honestly sure what a good replacement for that publication would be. To be worthwhile it would have to either provide some content not available elsewhere, or be able to reach an audience more effectively than existing resources. As always, the diversity of the ASA puts limitations on what can be done.

  Keith

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Received on Mon Jul 6 21:31:13 2009