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The theory of evolution is one that can inspire great debate and disagreements when it comes to schools. People who believe in the miracles of science don't see any way that a school can be legitimate if it does not teach the theory of evolution. On the other hand, many people (most of them fundamentalist Christians), see evolution as going against all of their religious beliefs, and therefore they do not want their children learning about it.

Both sides in the debate have some merit, and it is understandable to look at both views, but generally schools tend to teach the theory of evolution. In my opinion, they almost have to. Even if you don't believe it is right, it is still the prevailing theory of science out there. Schools should not present it as factual and without a doubt true, but they should at least talk about it, since it is such a large part of so many people's understanding of earth and how we came to be how we are today.

Even if a school does not believe in it, it is still the prevailing theory in science with regards to the creation of human life. With that being the case, how can honestly say you're giving a child the best education possible if you're not teaching the theory of evolution? There's nothing wrong with also teaching creationism, but only if you're also going to teach the theory of evolution. This does not have to be an either/or proposition, but the children should still be exposed to all viewpoints.

Not teaching evolution is like not teaching cell theory... we can't prove 100% certain that all living organisms are made of cells or that they are the most basic unit for function in organisms, but to the best of science's knowledge, those things are all correct. This is similar to the Theory of Evolution. It's not possible to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that humans were formed through evolution, but as far as science knows, that's how it happened. If evolution is presented as a theory (again, not as concrete fact), then I don't see it as inflammatory even if you believe evolution is bunk.

That is why the Theory of Evolution is taught in schools. Even though debates rage on, and even though some parents threaten (and probably do) pull their kids out of school and home school them as opposed to letting them learn about evolution, I don't see the schools' viewpoints changing anytime soon.

Learn more about this author, Juan Leer.
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