Scientific opinion on creationism and intelligent design & Darwin 200
Darwin 200
Darwin’s 200th birthday, 12th February 2009, is the opportunity for the science community to celebrate Charles Darwin's life and the huge contribution he made to increasing the understanding of the world we live in.
Darwin's work on The Origin of Species and his Theory of Evolution is supported by a diverse and robust body of physical evidence, from fossilised bones to radiometric mesurement of the ages of the Earth's rocks. Clear evidence about the origins and evolution of the Earth and of life on this planet have been established by facts and data from the breadth of Science and its numerous disciplines.
This anniversary is an opportunity to affirm the importance of education about the fundamental elements of science. A scientific understanding of the world in which we live will enable us all to meet the future needs of the planet.
Creation vs evolution. Creationism and intelligent design, arguments, evidence and theory.
There has been much debate about the teaching of creationism and intelligent design. Intelligent Design is a creationist belief that suggests that the biological complexity of human beings is evidence for presence of a God or an 'intelligent designer'. There are concerns that it is sometimes advanced as scientific theory but it has no underpinning scientific principles or explanations supporting it and it is not accepted by the international scientific community. Creationism and intelligent design are not part of the National Curriculum for science, but there is scope for schools to discuss creationism as part of Religious Education.
Below are links to statements and reports by a range of scientific bodies of national or international standing.
The Association for Science Education is the professional association for teachers of science. With a broad spread of membership from primary and secondary teachers, to technicians, those involved in Initial Teacher Education, and also includes some 2.500 student members.
Geological Society of London is a learned society with the aim of "investigating the mineral structure of the Earth". It is the oldest national geological society in the world and the largest in Europe with over 9000 Fellows.
American Association for the Advancement of Science regarding the importance of the integrity of science as depicted in film. This is a response to the release of a film called 'Expelled' which it was felt inappropriately witted science against religion.
American Association for the Advancement of Science is an international non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing science around the world. Founded in 1848, AAAS serves some 262 affiliated societies and academies of science, serving 10 million individuals. The non-profit AAAS is open to all and fulfills its mission to “advance science and serve society” through initiatives in science policy; international programs; science education; and more.
The American Institute of Biological Sciences is a nonprofit scientific association dedicated to advancing biological research and education for the welfare of society
The Geological Society of America is a global professional society with a membership of more than 21,000 individuals in over 85 countries.
InterAcademy Panel on International Issues (IAP) is a global network of the world's science academies, including from the United Kingdom, The Royal Society. The panel was launched in 1993, its primary goal is to help member academies work together to advise citizens and public officials on the scientific aspects of critical global issues. .
Joint Statement AAAS, NSTA, National Research Council - Kansas Education Standards The National Academies perform an unparalleled public service by bringing together committees of experts in all areas of scientific and technological endeavor. These experts serve pro bono to address critical national issues and give advice to the federal government and the public.
National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), founded in 1944 is committed to promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA's current membership of more than 55,000 includes science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and others involved in and committed to science education.
