Who qualifies as a legitimate scientist? Who gets to decide what scientifc theories are adopted? How much dissent from the majority opinion should be allowed in the field of science? These questions and others need answers in our day. Whether one is talking about global warming, vaccination fears, or evolution, it is important to establish what science is and who gets to speak for it.
An upcoming documentary will explore the expulsion of Intelligent Design theorists from universities. It is called Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed and is hosted by the funny and intelligent Ben Stein. It apparently touches on the broader topics of academic freedom, closed-mindedness, and the role of Darwinian theory in the anti-Semitism of the Nazis.
I can’t wait to see it. It’s about time that this topic is discussed in such a potentially powerful way.
Trailer:
4 responses so far ↓
onein6billion // April 13, 2008 at 12:39 am |
“Who gets to decide what scientific theories are adopted?”
This question is irrelevant. Creationism and “intelligent design” are not and will not ever be “scientific theories”.
RG’s Response: So, apparently your answer to my question is that you get to decide. Who appointed you?
“the expulsion of Intelligent Design theorists from universities.”
In order to be “expelled”, you would have to be admitted first. These “non-theorists” were never admitted. Gonzalez aspired to tenure, but if you’re not really a scientist (any more), you can’t expect to be admitted. And the correct inference might be “Martin Luther’s anti-semitic writings led to Hitler”, not Darwin’s scientific theory. Einstein led to Hiroshima? Equally ridiculous.
patrick // April 23, 2008 at 9:37 am |
just saw Expelled; the fact that Ben Stein isn’t trying to win any popularity contests helps to validate his message… i gather that his goal is to promote free thought, especially more thinking about the worldviews that drive American academia
RG’s Response: Thanks for the report. I will be seeing it in the next two days.
Movie Review– Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed « Significant Pursuit by Renaissance Guy // April 24, 2008 at 10:34 pm |
[...] 24, 2008 · No Comments A couple of weeks ago I posted a preview of the movie Expelled, which hit theaters a few days ago. Now I have seen it, and it exceeded my expectations. I [...]
onein6billion // May 3, 2008 at 11:38 pm |
“I will be seeing it in the next two days.”
What do you think now that you have wasted a little time on this lying mockumentary?