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Evolution versus creationism: a matter of acceptance versus belief
Scientists are often challenged about their ‘belief’ in evolution. Many creationists try to convince people that evolution is more of a ‘faith-based’ position or belief system than ‘real science’. This article examines the notion of acceptance versus belief and the relationship between knowledge, understanding and belief. It argues that adopting the acceptance of evolution over belief in evolution will help teachers deal with the challenges that inevitably arise in lessons on evolution in high school. Studies in philosophy show beliefs are often held without evidence, may be illogical and are difficult to change. Acceptance of a scientific explanation for a natural phenomenon, however, is based on evidence and allows for a change in disposition should new evidence come to light. With this in mind, removing the idea of ‘belief’ in evolution and talking about acceptance provides a sensible way to manage talk of creationism versus evolution, if and when it arises in the classroom.
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Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Journal of Biological EducationISSN
0021-9266Publisher
Institute of BiologyExternal DOI
Issue
3Volume
49Page range
322-333Department affiliated with
- Education Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2015-01-27First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2021-03-08Usage metrics
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