Evolution of the Evolution Controversy

Course Description

In 1859, the publication of Origin of Species by Charles Darwin ignited a controversy continuing to the present day. To put it in stark and simplistic terms, there are Darwinians who maintain that natural laws are sufficient to explain the origin and diversity of all living organisms, including humanity, without recourse to divine or supernatural intervention. Natural selection, operating over long periods of time, is the basic mechanism in this process. On the other side, creationists (to use a sweeping term) claim the universe and all the life in it came into being by the will and act of a Creator, as presented in the Book of Genesis. Although the vast majority of scientists accepted, over a century ago, Darwinian evolution, a committed opposition to evolution continues. Creationists not only deny the validity of Darwinian evolution, they often seek to ban or limit the teaching of evolution, and call for the teaching of creationism as an alternative and legitimate scientific explanation. This seminar examines the controversy; its history and development; claims and counter claims; the major figures involved; its varied social, political, educational, and religious dimensions; and its roots in American culture.