Synopsis

In a time when creationist textbooks continue to appear in classrooms and the president of the United States encourages educators to “teach both sides” of the argument, Scientists Confront Creationism presents an accessible defense of evolution and a blueprint to save public education in this country from the dangers of pseudoscience. With sixteen essays from some of the most important advocates in the field, including Kevin Padian, John R. Cole, and Wesley R. Elsberry, Scientists Confront Creationism reveals the persuasive evidence for evolution and the bankruptcy of the creationists’ claims. While telling the history of creationism in America, this powerful collection eviscerates “intelligent design” and reveals the newest tactics taken by antievolutionist proponents. As long as science requires public advocacy, this highly intelligent treasury of scholarship will remain an essential resource for students, teachers, and open-minded citizens

KLIATT - Daniel Levinson

This is not a book that presents arguments from proponents of both views in the teaching evolution debate. It stands forthrightly behind scientists who most strongly reject any religiously based alternative to science. Most key elements in the scientific and cultural debate are addressed in essays that range from 20 to 50 pages each. The 16 essays address scientific, historical and cultural issues: on the first topic, for instance, there are separate articles on the science of the Earth's age, origin of life, and transitional forms and biological complexity. The book also has articles that deal more specifically with the politics of evolution, the history of creationism, and the nature of science. The collection ends succinctly with essays addressing "why target evolution?" and "why teach evolution?" A first edition of this book appeared in 1983, and this volume aims to cover the most recent controversies about the newest anti-evolution theory, intelligent design. This is an excellent sourcebook for anyone building a library on the topic, with a good index, substantial endnotes for each article and biographical sketches of the authors. Reviewer: Daniel Levinson

Biography

Andrew J. Petto is the editor of Reports of the National Center for Science Education in Oakland, California, and a lecturer in anatomy and physiology at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. He lives in Wisconsin.

Laurie R. Godfrey is a professor of anthropology at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She lives in Massachusetts.