New Anti-Evolution Strategy Emerging In Texas Education

Today's New York Times carries an analysis of developments in Texas regarding public school science curriculum. The article titled "Opponents of Evolution Adopting a New Strategy" says that language already in the science standards, calling for the teaching of the "strengths and weaknesses" of evolution, has become the focus of debate. A state-appointed committee of science educators that is reviewing science standards is likely to recommend removal of the language. However opponents of evolution are only one vote away from a majority on the State Board of Education. The chairman of the Board, dentist Don McLeroy, believes that the earth appeared only thousands of years ago, saying his rejection of evolution is not a religious belief. He says: "I just don’t think it’s true or it's ever happened." Starting this summer, the Board will begin to set curriculum standards for the next decade. Because Texas is one of the largest buyers of textbooks, its mandates will likely find their way into texts used throughout the country.