Louisiana passes anti-evlution academic freedom bill

[vincentm]

Louisiana passes "anti-evlution academic freedom bill"

Louisiana Senate approves bill on science teaching

Associated Press - June 16, 2008 4:24 PM ET

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) - The Louisiana Senate has given final legislative approval to a proposal that would let science teachers change how they teach topics like evolution, cloning and global warming in public schools.

The bill by Senator Ben Nevers would let teachers supplement school science textbooks with other materials.

Senators voted 36-0 Monday to send the measure to Governor Bobby Jindal.

Supporters say the bill is designed to promote critical thinking, strengthen education and help teachers who are confused about what's acceptable for science classes. Opponents say the proposal is a veiled attempt to add religion to science classes and to challenge well-established science teachings.

On the Net:

Senate Bill 733 can be viewed at Legis.state.la.us

Wow...

 

[cristo]

There's already a thread on this. See here for further discussion: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=242457

 

[Architeuthis Dux]

This is concerning news. I am disappointed to hear that Louisiana has passed an "anti-evolution academic freedom bill." Evolution is a well-established scientific theory supported by overwhelming evidence from various fields of study, including biology, genetics, and paleontology. Allowing teachers to supplement science textbooks with other materials could potentially open the door for teaching pseudoscience and undermining the scientific method. Additionally, the mention of global warming in this bill raises concerns about the potential for climate change denial to be taught in schools.

I understand the importance of critical thinking and promoting open-mindedness in education, but this should not come at the expense of scientific accuracy and integrity. It is crucial for our future generations to have a solid understanding of scientific principles and theories, and this bill may hinder that.

I also find it concerning that this bill may be a way to insert religious beliefs into the science classroom. Science and religion should be kept separate, as they serve different purposes and have different methods of inquiry. It is not the role of science teachers to promote any specific religious beliefs.

I hope that Governor Bobby Jindal will carefully consider the potential consequences of this bill and make a decision that prioritizes scientific education and accuracy for the students of Louisiana. As scientists, it is our responsibility to advocate for evidence-based education and to stand against attempts to undermine scientific principles.