"Genesis" painting by Michelangelo, on ceiling of Sistine Chapel (AP)
More Believe in Creation Than Evolution - Poll Story aired: Tuesday, November 23, 2004
A federal judge in Georgia is expected to rule soon on a case about disclaimers that were placed inside biology text books in suburban Atlanta. The disclaimers reads: "This textbook contains material on evolution. Evolution is a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things. This material should be approached with an open mind, studied carefully and critically considered."
The Georgia case is one of several challenging the teaching of evolution, Raja Mishra of the Boston Globe has covered the story. He writes that evolution is considered by scientists to be among the most important and supported scientific theory of all time.
The debate between evolutionists and creationists is being played out in schools, and in the six bookstores in the Grand Canyon National Park. A faith-based book called "Grand Canyon: A Different View" is being sold in the park's federally funded bookstores.
It reflects the young earth theory of creationism that the Earth is 6,000 years old and that Grand Canyon was formed as a result of Noah's great flood.
Critics say a faith based book should not be sold in federally funded bookstores.
Elaine Sevy, a spokesperson with the National Park system, said in a written statement that government attorneys are reviewing the matter. Sevy wrote: "Our nation values freedom of speech and freedom of religion. Because park bookstores carry books presenting a variety of ideas and perspectives, does not mean the park system endorses those viewpoints any more than a public library endorses all the views of the books it contains."
Tom Vail is the books author, and a rafting guide who runs Canyon Ministries, rafting trips with a creationist point of view. Here & Now asked Vail to explain his view of the Grand Canyon's genesis.
Guests:
Raja Mishra, Boston Globe reporter
Tom Vail, author of "Grand Canyon: A Different View"
