Evolution - fact or just one of many theories?

Teaching alternate theories of life's origin in US public schools

Seminar paper from the year 2006 in the subject American Studies - Culture and Applied Geography, grade: 1,0, University of Brussel (Institut supérieur de traducteurs et interprètes), language: English, abstract: The objective of this paper is to describe the controversy between Darwinism and creationism in public education in the United States. Part One defines key terms such as 'creationism', 'Intelligent Design' and 'Darwinism' and examines the arguments, views and concepts of all schools of thought in the controversy. Part Two gives a brief overview of the present situation in public education in different states and explains the legal status quo in connection with current judgments and trials. Part Three describes the background of the debate and mentions historical key events and court cases concerning evolution. Part Four examines what the American public thinks about teaching creationism and shows how views differ between social groups and political preferences with the aid of recent surveys and opinion polls. In addition to that, it describes President Bush's opinion and his contribution to the debate up to now. Part Five considers future developments in this matter that are to be expected. Part Six, the conclusion, draws conclusions and describes my personal understanding of the issue.