The aim of this paper is to explain how this distinct religious trait of being prone to fundamentalist thought, which is an integral part of American culture, affects modern science, education and even challenges several scientifically substantiated theories – among them Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. There will be a concise yet detailed analysis of the historical background, the political and social rootage and the current developments regarding the terms describing Creationism and Intelligent Design. The paper will introduce the two concepts, its perception and the ongoing debate in the United States. Prior to that, however, it is considered important to have a look at the beginnings of religious life in the United States in the first chapter - as it is indispensable for a thorough comprehension of the entire subject matter.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- I "One Nation under God"
- II Creationism: Genesis vs. Darwin
- II.1 Definition, Conception and Criticism
- II.2 The Advance of Creationism
- III "Creation Science": Intelligent Design
- III.1 Definition, Conception and Criticism
- III.2 Intelligent Design and Education - 1968 to the 1990s
- III.3 Recent Developments - 2001 to 2008
- IV A Debate Goes On
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper aims to explain how the distinct religious trait, integral to American culture, affects modern science, education, and challenges several scientifically substantiated theories, including Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. It will analyze the historical background, the political and social rootage, and current developments regarding Creationism and Intelligent Design.
- The influence of religious thought on American culture and society
- The historical development of Creationism and Intelligent Design
- The ongoing debate surrounding Creationism and Intelligent Design in the United States
- The impact of these concepts on science and education
- The role of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution in the debate
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- I "One Nation under God": This chapter introduces the prominent role of religion in American society and politics, highlighting the historical development of diverse Christian denominations and the influence of Puritan thought on the early settlement of the United States.
- II Creationism: Genesis vs. Darwin: This chapter defines Creationism, explores its different conceptions and criticisms, and examines the advancement of this approach in the United States.
- III "Creation Science": Intelligent Design: This chapter defines Intelligent Design, outlines its conception and criticism, and analyzes its impact on education from the 1960s to the present day.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This paper focuses on Creationism and Intelligent Design, exploring their historical development, the ongoing debate surrounding them in the United States, and their impact on science and education. Key themes include religious freedom, the First Amendment, the separation of church and state, the influence of Puritan thought on American culture, and the clash between religious beliefs and scientific theories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Creationism and Intelligent Design?
Creationism is based on a literal interpretation of the Bible (Genesis), while Intelligent Design (ID) claims that certain features of the universe are best explained by an intelligent cause, though it often avoids explicit religious terminology to appear more "scientific."
Why is the debate so prominent in the United States?
The debate is rooted in the strong influence of fundamentalist religious thought in American culture and the legal separation of church and state mandated by the First Amendment.
How does the First Amendment affect science education?
The Establishment Clause of the First Amendment prohibits public schools from promoting specific religious beliefs, which has led to numerous court cases regarding the teaching of evolution and creation-based alternatives.
What was the significance of the 1968-1990s period for this debate?
This period saw several landmark legal battles where the teaching of "Creation Science" in public schools was challenged and eventually ruled unconstitutional as a violation of the separation of church and state.
How does Puritan thought still influence modern America?
The paper argues that the Puritan legacy contributed to a distinct religious trait in American society that remains prone to fundamentalist views on science and morality.
- Quote paper
- Oliver Gebel (Author), 2008, Creationism and Intelligent Design, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/94224
