Teaching Evolution
Eos, Vol 81, No 2, p 15 (Jan 11, 2000)
A newly revised position statement emphasizes evolution and continues
to oppose the teaching of creationism as science. The revised statement,
adopted by the AGU Council on December 16, 1999 underscores that teaching
evolution is vital to science education. It expands upon AGU's previous
statement opposing the teaching of creationism or any other religious
tenets as science that was adopted in 1981. The revised statement contrasts
scientific theories like evolution, plate tectonics, and relativity
with "creation science," which is not supported by scientific
observations.
The statement was drafted by a panel chaired by John Geissman of the
University of New Mexico. Panel members included David Applegate, Richard
Barber, Brent Dalrymple, Robert Hazen, Margo Kingston, Steven Stanley,
and Mary Lou Zoback. The statement and the policy on AGU's role in
advocacy of public issues are available on the AGU Web site:
http://www.agu.org/sci_soc/policy/sci_pol.html.
Peter Folger, Manager, Public Affairs
AGU Headquarters, Washington DC., USA