I was having another discussion recently about the Science vs. Creationism debate. I was trying to sketch out the broad positions, describe my stance, when I was asked a simple question:
Why?
Why does it matter if some people “believe” in evolution, while others believe that the earth was created 6,000 years ago? What effect does it have on our day to day life? Why can’t we all just get along?
Why, you ask?
Because 46% of Americans believe that God created humans in their present form thousands of years ago.
Because these people are degrading our public schools by insisting their junk theories be taught as fact.
Because teaching religion in public schools is unconstitutional and illegal.
Because teaching creationism discourages critical thinking and promotes an unscientific worldview.
Because these people are making our laws and shaping our future, either through direct legislation or through voting.
Because these selfsame anti-science people are the ones denying anthropogenic climate change.
Because these people are lying to women about their healthcare options.
Because these people are wrong.
THAT is why this discussion matters. Because for far too long we have been silent, thereby letting these evil philosophies worm their way into national discourse. And it is killing us. True, we may not convince the people on the other side of the “debate,” and that makes me sad. But others may see or hear these conversations, people who are more open to changing their minds. I have to hope eventually they will. Otherwise, we may have to wait for the conservative sticks-in-the-mud to die of old age, hoping they don’t screw things up too much on their way out.
Because these are important issues.
Because we have good reason to be angry.
Because all that is required for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing.
