Richard:
>I have no objection to children debating any question that they're
>interested in. The issue, though, is what should be taught in science
>classes. Or maybe you think that science classes should be replaced by
>debates?
Hi, Richard. I would teach children that most scientists can be trusted.
Most are generally objective and welcome challenges to any of their
scientific theories. However, if scientists ever appeared emotionally
committed to a scientific theory, taking criticism as a personal affront, I
would warn students to be skeptical. I would warn students to be cautious
of any theory defended by ridicule and intimidation, such as attacking the
academic credentials of scientists suggesting alternatives. If scientists
ever tried to limit consideration of alternatives to any theory, I would warn
children to take a close look at those alternatives. If science should ever
resorted to the courts to prevent any theory from being discussed in the
classroom, I would urge students to take a close look at whatever was being
banned. I would urge students to trust scientists, but scientists are
human, and as susceptible as the rest of us to becoming emotionally involved
with ideas.
Bertvan
http:members.aol.com/bertvan
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