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Science, Evolution, and Creationism
How did life evolve on Earth? The answer to this question can help us understand our past and prepare for our future. Although evolution provides credible and reliable answers, polls show that many people turn away from science, seeking other explanations with which they are more comfortable.
In the book Science, Evolution, and Creationism, a group of experts assembled by the National Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Medicine explain the fundamental methods of science, document the overwhelming evidence in support of biological evolution, and evaluate the alternative perspectives offered by advocates of various kinds of creationism, including "intelligent design." The book explores the many fascinating inquiries being pursued that put the science of evolution to work in preventing and treating human disease, developing new agricultural products, and fostering industrial innovations. The book also presents the scientific and legal reasons for not teaching creationist ideas in public school science classes.
Mindful of school board battles and recent court decisions, Science, Evolution, and Creationism shows that science and religion should be viewed as different ways of understanding the world rather than as frameworks that are in conflict with each other and that the evidence for evolution can be fully compatible with religious faith. For educators, students, teachers, community leaders, legislators, policy makers, and parents who seek to understand the basis of evolutionary science, this publication will be an essential resource.
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2007
3 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 1, 2018
I personally have no issues with the topic of evolution being taught in schools, yet I rank this 100 pager at only a 3. I started it yesterday and finished it today. Thus, I can't help but to compare it to Stephen Meyer's Darwin's Doubt, which I'm presently nine days into, or rather, at a chapter a day, nine chapters into, and fully intend to rank a 5.
Both books are well-written, intelligent, articulate, well-documented, and persuasive, albeit opposingly so. Here is the difference that strikes me: Whereas Meyer's voice is thought-provoking, inviting, and respectful of his reader's agency, allowing them to formulate their own opinions, Science, Evolution, and Creationism seems chiefly aimed at instructing its readers what their opinion ought to be. Its voice is forceful, authoritative, exceptionally sure of itself, and parental. Perhaps this is to be expected considering its source. I kept wondering if its primary target audience is school teachers, at least this thought kept crossing my mind.
The great question raised by the creation-evolution debate, of course, pertains to our ultimate origin. I think the creationist's ultimate assertion simplifies to this: We exist because God exists. It's an assertion that neither favors nor disfavors evolution, and I certainly don't fault the National Academy on this point. There is a valid effort to imply science is not in conflict with religion. And, I might've ranked the book higher if I found in the writing's of Meyer the lack of evidence and scientific credibility that it was said to have. Instead, I find Meyer makes good points.
Both books are well-written, intelligent, articulate, well-documented, and persuasive, albeit opposingly so. Here is the difference that strikes me: Whereas Meyer's voice is thought-provoking, inviting, and respectful of his reader's agency, allowing them to formulate their own opinions, Science, Evolution, and Creationism seems chiefly aimed at instructing its readers what their opinion ought to be. Its voice is forceful, authoritative, exceptionally sure of itself, and parental. Perhaps this is to be expected considering its source. I kept wondering if its primary target audience is school teachers, at least this thought kept crossing my mind.
The great question raised by the creation-evolution debate, of course, pertains to our ultimate origin. I think the creationist's ultimate assertion simplifies to this: We exist because God exists. It's an assertion that neither favors nor disfavors evolution, and I certainly don't fault the National Academy on this point. There is a valid effort to imply science is not in conflict with religion. And, I might've ranked the book higher if I found in the writing's of Meyer the lack of evidence and scientific credibility that it was said to have. Instead, I find Meyer makes good points.
February 16, 2017
كتيب صغير لكنه بالنسبة لي حتى الان افضل كتاب اقراه حول نظرية التطور
March 8, 2008
This book is written by authors from the National Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Medicine, and contains a brief summary of the evidence for evolution, the creationist approach, and an description of why creationism and intelligent design are not science and therefore should not be taught in science classes.
As a scientist and a Christian, I was disappointed with its treatment of creationism and religious belief. I believe in evolution, and the book did give a marvelous explanation of the evidence for it, which is growing all the time.
But, while it was respectful towards faith, and one couldn't accuse it of persecuting religious people, its foundation in scientific thought processes led it to feel somewhat cold and calculating. Quote:
The ideas supported by creationists... are not supported by evidence and are not accepted by the scientific community. Different religions hold very different views and teachings about the origins and diversity of life on Earth. Because creationsm is based on specific sets of religious convictions, teaching it in science classes would mean imposing a particular religious view on students and thus is unconstitutional, according to ...the Supreme Court.
This is all indeed true, but you can see how the authors are scientists looking out of their world at others, rather than religious people who are also scientists who might be discussing this topic with their creationist grandmothers. Where's the warmth? Where's the acknowledgment that smart, reasonable people who are non-scientists don't believe evolution?
Even if this book is entirely correct, I was disppointed to find that it is not a book that I could give my creationist friends for persuasive purposes. It is so mired in the scientific worldview that they wouldn't feel that their world view was acknowledged.
Reading it felt a little like reading a book against anti-military protests that was written by a 4-star general. Well written, but not something the protester wants to read.
As a scientist and a Christian, I was disappointed with its treatment of creationism and religious belief. I believe in evolution, and the book did give a marvelous explanation of the evidence for it, which is growing all the time.
But, while it was respectful towards faith, and one couldn't accuse it of persecuting religious people, its foundation in scientific thought processes led it to feel somewhat cold and calculating. Quote:
The ideas supported by creationists... are not supported by evidence and are not accepted by the scientific community. Different religions hold very different views and teachings about the origins and diversity of life on Earth. Because creationsm is based on specific sets of religious convictions, teaching it in science classes would mean imposing a particular religious view on students and thus is unconstitutional, according to ...the Supreme Court.
This is all indeed true, but you can see how the authors are scientists looking out of their world at others, rather than religious people who are also scientists who might be discussing this topic with their creationist grandmothers. Where's the warmth? Where's the acknowledgment that smart, reasonable people who are non-scientists don't believe evolution?
Even if this book is entirely correct, I was disppointed to find that it is not a book that I could give my creationist friends for persuasive purposes. It is so mired in the scientific worldview that they wouldn't feel that their world view was acknowledged.
Reading it felt a little like reading a book against anti-military protests that was written by a 4-star general. Well written, but not something the protester wants to read.
July 8, 2013
They could lose the attitude, but I appreciated the succinct overview.
January 20, 2023
Incredibile... i delfini avevano 4 zampe
July 3, 2025
Insightful, straight forward and easy to read. Loved it and learnt alot!
March 10, 2015
Science, Evolution, and Creationism by National Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Medicine
“Science, Evolution, and Creationism" is a booklet that provides succinct and accessible information to the public on evolution. This booklet is the result of the collaboration between the National Academy of Sciences and one of its components, the Institute of Medicine. It’s a good resource and it comes from a trusted and valuable source. This 88-page booklet includes the following four chapters: 1. Evolution and the Nature of Science, 2. The Evidence for Biological Evolution, and 3. Creationist Perspectives, and 4. Conclusions.
Positives:
1. A well written and succinct book.
2. The National Academy of Sciences is a reputable and trustworthy source.
3. The fascinating topic of how life changed over time, evolution.
4. A nice looking and colorful book. Good use of charts and illustrations.
5. A nice introduction that goes over the purpose of this book. “It is written to serve as a resource for people who find themselves embroiled in debates about evolution.”
6. The book does a fairly good job of defining key terms. “Biological evolution refers to changes in the traits of organisms over multiple generations.” “It is populations of organisms that evolve, not individual organisms.”
7. Goes over the discovery of Tiktaalik. Shows why science works.
8. In defense of the evidence. “The theory of evolution is supported by so many observations and experiments that the overwhelming majority of scientists no longer question whether evolution has occurred and continues and instead investigate the process of evolution.”
9. A practical approach of why understanding evolution is important. “An understanding of evolution was essential in the identification of the SARS virus. The genetic material in the virus was similar to that of other viruses because it has evolved from the same ancestor virus.”
10. Provides areas of science outside of biology that supports biological evolution.
11. Clarifies key misconceptions of the public. “Humans are not descended from chimpanzees or from any other ape living today but from a species that no longer exists. Nor are humans descended from the species of fish that live today but, rather, from the species of fish that gave rise to early tetrapods.”
12. The role that molecular biology played in confirming and strengthening the grand theory of evolution.
13. A look at human evolution.
14. The danger of creationism. “Despite the lack of scientific evidence for creationist positions, some advocates continue to demand that various forms of creationism be taught together with or in place of evolution in science classes.”
15. The importance of basing policies on good science. “To make informed decisions about public policies, people need to know, how scientific evidence supports those policies and whether that evidence was gathered using well-established scientific practice and principles.”
16. A good final chapter that includes frequently asked questions.
17. Articles and a bibliography provided.
18. Committee members’ biographies provided.
Negatives:
1. More like a very good appetizer instead of a main dish.
2. Even acknowledging that this book is intended for the masses, I still felt it was too basic.
3. Doesn’t translate as well on the black and white Kindles versus the Fire.
4. It tries to show why science and religion can be compatible, I respectfully disagree.
In summary, this is a useful, accessible and brief look at evolution from a reputable and trustworthy source. If you are looking for an appetizer on the grand theory of evolution this book will do but there are honestly much better and equally accessible books on the market. This book is a very accessible reference for people with little time.
Further recommendations: “Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation” by Bill Nye, “Evolution vs Creationism” by Eugenie C. Scott, “Why Evolution Works (and Creationism Fails)” by Matt Young, “The Greatest Shown On Earth” by Richard Dawkins, “Evolving Out of Eden” by Robert M. Price, “Your Inner Fish” by Neil Shubin, “Understanding Evolution and Ourselves” by Dennis Littrell, “Why Evolution Is True” by Jerry A. Coyne, “The Rocks Don’t Lie” by David R. Montgomery, “What Evolution Is” by Ernst Mayr, “Evolution: What the Fossils Say and Why it Matters” by Donald R. Prothero, and “The Making of the Fittest” by Sean B. Carroll.
“Science, Evolution, and Creationism" is a booklet that provides succinct and accessible information to the public on evolution. This booklet is the result of the collaboration between the National Academy of Sciences and one of its components, the Institute of Medicine. It’s a good resource and it comes from a trusted and valuable source. This 88-page booklet includes the following four chapters: 1. Evolution and the Nature of Science, 2. The Evidence for Biological Evolution, and 3. Creationist Perspectives, and 4. Conclusions.
Positives:
1. A well written and succinct book.
2. The National Academy of Sciences is a reputable and trustworthy source.
3. The fascinating topic of how life changed over time, evolution.
4. A nice looking and colorful book. Good use of charts and illustrations.
5. A nice introduction that goes over the purpose of this book. “It is written to serve as a resource for people who find themselves embroiled in debates about evolution.”
6. The book does a fairly good job of defining key terms. “Biological evolution refers to changes in the traits of organisms over multiple generations.” “It is populations of organisms that evolve, not individual organisms.”
7. Goes over the discovery of Tiktaalik. Shows why science works.
8. In defense of the evidence. “The theory of evolution is supported by so many observations and experiments that the overwhelming majority of scientists no longer question whether evolution has occurred and continues and instead investigate the process of evolution.”
9. A practical approach of why understanding evolution is important. “An understanding of evolution was essential in the identification of the SARS virus. The genetic material in the virus was similar to that of other viruses because it has evolved from the same ancestor virus.”
10. Provides areas of science outside of biology that supports biological evolution.
11. Clarifies key misconceptions of the public. “Humans are not descended from chimpanzees or from any other ape living today but from a species that no longer exists. Nor are humans descended from the species of fish that live today but, rather, from the species of fish that gave rise to early tetrapods.”
12. The role that molecular biology played in confirming and strengthening the grand theory of evolution.
13. A look at human evolution.
14. The danger of creationism. “Despite the lack of scientific evidence for creationist positions, some advocates continue to demand that various forms of creationism be taught together with or in place of evolution in science classes.”
15. The importance of basing policies on good science. “To make informed decisions about public policies, people need to know, how scientific evidence supports those policies and whether that evidence was gathered using well-established scientific practice and principles.”
16. A good final chapter that includes frequently asked questions.
17. Articles and a bibliography provided.
18. Committee members’ biographies provided.
Negatives:
1. More like a very good appetizer instead of a main dish.
2. Even acknowledging that this book is intended for the masses, I still felt it was too basic.
3. Doesn’t translate as well on the black and white Kindles versus the Fire.
4. It tries to show why science and religion can be compatible, I respectfully disagree.
In summary, this is a useful, accessible and brief look at evolution from a reputable and trustworthy source. If you are looking for an appetizer on the grand theory of evolution this book will do but there are honestly much better and equally accessible books on the market. This book is a very accessible reference for people with little time.
Further recommendations: “Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation” by Bill Nye, “Evolution vs Creationism” by Eugenie C. Scott, “Why Evolution Works (and Creationism Fails)” by Matt Young, “The Greatest Shown On Earth” by Richard Dawkins, “Evolving Out of Eden” by Robert M. Price, “Your Inner Fish” by Neil Shubin, “Understanding Evolution and Ourselves” by Dennis Littrell, “Why Evolution Is True” by Jerry A. Coyne, “The Rocks Don’t Lie” by David R. Montgomery, “What Evolution Is” by Ernst Mayr, “Evolution: What the Fossils Say and Why it Matters” by Donald R. Prothero, and “The Making of the Fittest” by Sean B. Carroll.
November 14, 2016
This is a quick reader that explains all of the science that rests behind evolution and why it should be taught in schools. It's dual mandate is also to advocate for not teaching Creationism in school.
I think for anyone that can't clearly elaborate on the principles of evolution this book is a must read. This goes through the evidence and logic that scientists use to build the case for evolution.
As a Christian, I find it impressive how much we are able to deduce about the world around us with the minds we are given and find it dishonoring to God to not lift up how impressive of intelligence we have been gifted. I think Christians incorrectly interpret Genesis and the rest of the Pentateuch literally and as historical record. This is unfortunate and why this book is an important read. First, Genesis was written in poetic form, indicating it serves to describe events and people in general terms. Second it was passed down for centuries verbally before being written down, again contributing to it being not meant to be taken as historical reference. Third, history was recorded differently in that time, meaning it isn't meant to be seen as "all encompassing" as literal interpretations would have you believe. Fourth is, as mentioned before, that it is a bit of a slap in the face of God to say that all of these things that He has made us capable of comprehending should make us run from the truth instead of embracing it. I share the Christian perspective here because the book attacks Creationism in a general sense without tackling specific faiths and sticks largely to the science side of things.
I would rate this book higher but it took a borderline vitriolic tone towards creationism that even in agreement I felt like it was a bit much. It also became quite repetitive in its arguments against it which I think added to the intensity of the writers' tone.
I think for anyone that can't clearly elaborate on the principles of evolution this book is a must read. This goes through the evidence and logic that scientists use to build the case for evolution.
As a Christian, I find it impressive how much we are able to deduce about the world around us with the minds we are given and find it dishonoring to God to not lift up how impressive of intelligence we have been gifted. I think Christians incorrectly interpret Genesis and the rest of the Pentateuch literally and as historical record. This is unfortunate and why this book is an important read. First, Genesis was written in poetic form, indicating it serves to describe events and people in general terms. Second it was passed down for centuries verbally before being written down, again contributing to it being not meant to be taken as historical reference. Third, history was recorded differently in that time, meaning it isn't meant to be seen as "all encompassing" as literal interpretations would have you believe. Fourth is, as mentioned before, that it is a bit of a slap in the face of God to say that all of these things that He has made us capable of comprehending should make us run from the truth instead of embracing it. I share the Christian perspective here because the book attacks Creationism in a general sense without tackling specific faiths and sticks largely to the science side of things.
I would rate this book higher but it took a borderline vitriolic tone towards creationism that even in agreement I felt like it was a bit much. It also became quite repetitive in its arguments against it which I think added to the intensity of the writers' tone.
January 31, 2023
Firstly, i would like to add that i skipped/skimmed some page, pg 26-28 and pg 32-35 to be precise
Anyway, for my review:
Because the book is structured like a textbook, reading 1 page equals to reading 3-5 page of normal book. So, the book is actually quite long, albeit it described to only have 70 pages in GoodReads.
Anyway, as for the book itself, i think the book did a great job in its attempt to prove evolution. However, if the targeted audience was the general public, it should be explained more simply.
The book was released in 2008, it gives pretty good argument against the ID movement (Btw, the arguments has been replied by ID defenders in later time). Now let's move on the most important question: Does the book sounds one sided? I would say yes. Why? Because it repeats "Evolution is an established fact and no scientist contend to it" like 20+ times. And i'm not even exaggerating. Additionally, the book also emphasize numerous times that many religious scientist believe in God, and that many religious denomination agrees with evolution, the author made it seem like anyone who doesn't believe in Evolution are some kind of heretics. And made it seem like that "Scientist" Are a group of atheist battling theist (Creationist). The book stated numerous time that one can reconcile faith and science, but you can clearly see some bias in the writing.
Well, that's my review. I'm trying to be as unbiased as possible while writing this, and to confirm this, you can read the book yourself (if you have it) :)
Anyway, for my review:
Because the book is structured like a textbook, reading 1 page equals to reading 3-5 page of normal book. So, the book is actually quite long, albeit it described to only have 70 pages in GoodReads.
Anyway, as for the book itself, i think the book did a great job in its attempt to prove evolution. However, if the targeted audience was the general public, it should be explained more simply.
The book was released in 2008, it gives pretty good argument against the ID movement (Btw, the arguments has been replied by ID defenders in later time). Now let's move on the most important question: Does the book sounds one sided? I would say yes. Why? Because it repeats "Evolution is an established fact and no scientist contend to it" like 20+ times. And i'm not even exaggerating. Additionally, the book also emphasize numerous times that many religious scientist believe in God, and that many religious denomination agrees with evolution, the author made it seem like anyone who doesn't believe in Evolution are some kind of heretics. And made it seem like that "Scientist" Are a group of atheist battling theist (Creationist). The book stated numerous time that one can reconcile faith and science, but you can clearly see some bias in the writing.
Well, that's my review. I'm trying to be as unbiased as possible while writing this, and to confirm this, you can read the book yourself (if you have it) :)
April 26, 2008
This is a good, concise review of the scientific basis for evolution and the evidence behind it. It does a good job of distinguishing between what knowledge can and can't be gained through scientific method, shows how the theory of evolution has contributed to a wide array of scientific advances, and debunks (at a level most students should be able to grasp) a lot of common myths around the theory of evolution.
The assault on the theory of evolution, and the underlying belief that scientific knowledge can be cherry-picked and selectively ignored, constitutes a grave threat to America's future as a modern nation. This book is something everyone should read.
My only worry is that those who need it most -- educators in our public schools -- already find themselves in a political environment that discourages even public discussion of books like this.
The assault on the theory of evolution, and the underlying belief that scientific knowledge can be cherry-picked and selectively ignored, constitutes a grave threat to America's future as a modern nation. This book is something everyone should read.
My only worry is that those who need it most -- educators in our public schools -- already find themselves in a political environment that discourages even public discussion of books like this.
May 25, 2008
This is a very quick and very light "introduction" to evolution. I wanted to refresh my basic knowledge as I was also reading "Why Beautiful People Have More Daughters" (a book written by two evolutionary psychologists). I can't say that I learned anything new from "Science, Evolution and Creationism," but for a quick primer on the science behind Evolutionary theory, it was a fine choice.
April 21, 2009
According to documents released on Dec. 28, 2006 by the Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER), Bush administration appointees will not allow rangers at Grand Canyon National Park to mention that the earth is more than a few thousand years old.
October 25, 2008
Very good look at science, evolution and creationism. Go figure!
August 30, 2012
Should be required required reading for all students and educators. Straight talk on why evolution and religion are completely compatible.
July 26, 2016
Excellent
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews