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