The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Teaching evolution

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Saturday, Dec 27, 2008
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Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Teaching evolution

This refers to the editorial “Teaching evolution” (Dec. 24). Charles Darwin’s contribution to the theory of evolution profoundly changed the thinking of the scientific world and influenced the development of modern biology. The modern theory of evolution is the basis of biological science and an idea that unifies research from medicine to geology. Just as Isaac Newton’s theory of gravity is as valid today as it was when he first stated it, Darwin’s theory too is relevant today. Intelligent Design sounds attractive and elegant but is dogged by controversies. It raises the question ‘whose Intelligent Design, and of which faith.’

H.N. Ramakrishna,

Bangalore

Religion is personal but science is not. Only a scientific method of evolution should be taught in classrooms. Let religious speculation on creationism remain personal.

P. Alwarappan,

Annur

While the movements opposing the evolutionary theory are strong in the U.S., according to an online poll in Australia 66 per cent of the people feel intelligent design should not be taught in science classrooms.

Alby Elias,

NSW, Australia

* * *

As aptly pointed out in the editorial, it is the scientific method and, by implication a scientific temper, that should be adopted and inculcated in the education system. Unfortunately, the existing system is dependent on learning by rote and not driven by a spirit of enquiry. Scientific theories are just too inconvenient to many educationists as they run counter to the faiths to which they belong. The heads of schools themselves are the main culprits as they encourage faith-based invocations before examinations and other important functions. For India to emerge as a secular modern nation, the school system should be devoid of religious teachings.

Kasim Sait,

Chennai

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