Reference no: EM132323394
Thomas Dixon (2008), "Chapter 4: Darwin and Evolution" and "Chapter 5: Creationism and Intelligent Design," Science and Religion: A Very Short Introduction, pp. 61-79 and pp. 80-94.
Compose your reflection essay (minimum of 400 words) and post it on the discussion board
Your reflection essay should respond to one of the following sets of discussion questions:
How do Darwin's ideas fit in the taxonomy Barbour proposes (i.e., conflict, independence, dialogue, and integration)? How was Darwin's study received at his time? Is it possible to consider the debate around his work simply a representative of the modern conflict between science and religion? Why, or Why not?
Revisit the Barbour reading, and compare with how Ian Barbour talks about evolution, creationism, or intelligent design. Do you see any similarities and differences in the way Barbour and Dixon approach these issues?
Dixon writes: "While the idea of evolution has proved to be politically very malleable, it is generally accepted that in itself the scientific theory does not lead to any of these positions." (p. 79) How does Dixon back up this claim concerning the distinction between the uses of evolution in political and scientific arenas? What makes evolution such a volatile topic for political debates (for both pro-evolution and anti-evolution positions)?
Why have anti-evolution thinking and sentiment been particularly strong in the U.S. (more specifically, American Protestantism)? Focus on one of the major controversies around evolution in the U.S. history, and discuss social, cultural, and political settings in which this controversy took place.