Yes, more on Buttars bill

I have a few quick comments on the following Salt Lake Tribune article out on the December 24th. (article’s quotes bolded)

If teachers are required to teach that scientists don't agree how life originated, then it could lead students to wonder and ask what the other theories - including intelligent design - are. Buttars believes that would be a good thing.

Educators, however, fear the requirement could lead to discussions about religion in public schools, which the Utah Board of Education wants to avoid.

I wonder why educators would fear that.

“The almighty God that backs up my theory is bigger and greater and certainly much more true than the puny god that backs up yours! Therefore, my scientific theory condemns you and your theory to hell!”

Future science class essay question: If some other un-named theory is true, does that mean those who believe in evolution will be damned to Hell or to Outer Darkness (depending of course on which Utah religion you adhere to) or is there some hope for them?

"The bill almost says what should come out of the mouths of teachers . . . it's absurd," [Carol Lear] said. "I think this is a thinly veiled attempt to make the state board do what the board has unanimously said it does not want to do."

Proposing legislation that deals with curriculum is something Buttars can do, he said.

"The state Board of Education is not sovereign. There is only one sovereign and that is the state," he said.

You are Wrong, Buttars! God is the one sovereign, not the state. Heresy! (Isn’t it great when we mix politics and religion together.)

Rep. Margaret Dayton, R.-Orem, chairwoman of the House Education Standing Committee, said the bill is uncharted territory for Utah, but she does think what is taught in schools should not be left up solely to state or federal guidelines.

"There should be local control . . . and parents should be able to have some say and involvement in curriculum in various communities," she said.

I agree, except when it comes to science we need to stick to science, not some pseudoscience with a good PR campaign.