Evolution, Creationism, and Intelligent Design (Historical Guides to Controversial Issues in America)

Gr 10 Up—Phy-Olsen introduces this detailed enquiry into the historical and modern conflicts between science and religion by stating, "We have a problem!" She argues that the greatest losers in the debates among Darwinists, creationists, and proponents of intelligent design are America's public school children, who get stuck in the middle. The following chapters address the history of science and religion from ancient Greece through the Age of Reason; Darwin's work and the theory of evolution; and the use of Darwinism to support social programs like eugenics. They go on to discuss arguments for and against creationism and intelligent design, including major scientific and religious figures on both sides; major court cases involving the teachings in public schools; and the future of science and religion. Phy-Olsen retains a largely neutral stance, acknowledging the qualifications of experts on both sides, although slightly more weight is given to the proponents of evolution in reporting on court cases. She ends by suggesting that all students would benefit from more a comprehensive education in both science and the history of religion, and speculates about the future of religious education in schools. An appendix includes brief biographies of dozens of people mentioned in the text and a comprehensive annotated bibliography. An excellent choice for collections in need of material on this subject, and a good complement to Clay Farris Naff's Evolution (Gale/Greenhaven, 2005).—Rebecca Donnelly, Loma Colorado Public Library, Rio Rancho, NM