Proof that local, low level elections are just as important and national

[havocmom]

elections. I offer this little gem about the candidates for Montana Governor and the question of creationism being taught in public schools.

Billings Gazette

<snipe> Creationism is the belief that the Earth and life on Earth were created in a short period of time as described in the book of Genesis. Some conservative Christians see it as an scientifically valid alternative to Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

<snip> A debate erupted in Darby where the school board gave preliminary authorization for what's called an "objective origins" science policy that encourages teachers to help students challenge theories such as evolution.

/// We need to get more reasonable/responsible people on school boards who understand the Constitution and also the need to actually educate kids so they can function in the real world. This is where these fanatics who want the world made in their imagined image get started with their stranglehold on public policy, though they are a decidedly small group of the population. School board elections are very important. How the world view of youngsters is shaped or perverted is very sensitive. We simply cannot allow Christian Taliban types to be the ones making policy that will decide science will be subverted and pressure brought to bear on both educators and children to adopt a religious viewpoint in public schools.

The views of all the candidates for Governor are covered in the article, but let me give you the three that show the most pandering to religious doctrine and xtian fundies:

<snip> Pat Davison, Republican, business consultant from Billings: "I support the separation of church and state and believe creationism is best left for each faith to teach in its own way. However, I oppose efforts to eliminate all references to various faiths from our public buildings and institutions, such as Christmas symbols, the Ten Commandments or the word God from the Pledge of Allegiance."

//OK, not insisting on violating the constitution, but keeping his foot in the door to hold it ajar.

<snip> Keating, Republican, petroleum landman and former state senator from Billings: "This country was founded on the premise that all things, including you and me, were created. Certainly the theory of creation should be studied in the public schools in comparison to the theory of evolution. The Declaration of Independence defines the essence of our country and the source of life, liberty and just pursuits. Yes, there should be serious study of creationism in the public schools as it relates to America."

// Ahem, no argument from me that all things were created. But I was created via the usual method which involved my mother and father. As to serious study of creationism, in public intuitions that should be done only in comparative religion and some history courses at college level. Sure, make reference to settlers coming here in search of a place to practice their chosen faith free of state interference in history classes at lower levels because that has a real place in education. But to teach actual religious premise in K-12 in public schools? I think not.

<snip> Miller, Republican, furniture outlet store owner and former state senator from Laurel: "Creationism should have an equal place with the theory of evolution in our school curriculum. If God is taken totally out of our schools, than so should Darwin's theory of evolution. If both are presented and accepted as differing opinions, then students can seek out the truth that they and their parents are comfortable with."

// OK, this guy is too out there or too much a puppet of the radical right fringe. I have tried to discuss the issue with people who insist that all is opinion though I can cite scientific proof that the earth is older than they insist and that there is such a thing as evolution. I show that evolution is still an ongoing process that is around us every day if we just take the time to observe from a neutral mind set. It doesn't work. Rational thought just doesn't get through to some people and I do not think the nation is served by letting them decide what is taught to the children. I want American kids to have a future in the world and they won't unless they can grasp basic scientific methods. Teaching a religious fable as having the same merit of evidence in the real world of how things work is not going to help the kids, the world , the future.

Local elections are very important. It you are inclined to it, consider working at the local level just as hard as at the national level. Local is where the disconnect begins.

[ironflange]

1. Thanks for the info

I assembled the database info for Montana, mostly as a learning experience. Now I've learned more. Thanks.

It was a fair bit of work, even for Montana. Hmm, only one representative. I'm glad I didn't offer to do Texas.

[Ediacara]

2. Well luckily, neither Miller or Keeting will become governor

I think the Republican candidate will be either Brown or Davison.