Scopes Trial and the Evolution Debate

The Evolution Debate

In this article, Peter Steinfels examines the persistent opposition to evolutionists nearly eight decades after John Scopes went on trial. Steinfels notes that the never-ending debate has been fueled by the fact that nearly 50% of the population rejects the notion that humans have evolved whereas two-thirds support teaching some form of creationism in public school science classes (par, 3). I agree with Stienfels’ view that the opponents to evolution feel threatened by the idea of teaching some form of creationism in public school classrooms. Religion seems to be the major contributing factor to the opposition to evolution theory. In essence, opponents of evolution feel threatened because the theory seemingly goes against their religious beliefs. The evolution-creation struggle that has fueled opposition to evolutionists is embedded in religious beliefs, particularly Christianity. On one hand, opponents of evolution theory believe that ancient Scriptures were the foundations of scientific truth. However, on the other hand, scientific enthusiasts contend that evolution was the basis for conclusions on religion.

As the debate rages on, it is increasingly apparent that the John Scopes trial, which is also known as the Scopes Monkey Trial, has done little to prevent belief and teachings on evolution theory. Despite the trial, evolution theory is still taught in public school science classes though it remains a controversial topic. The controversies surrounding this topic are attributable to the protracted religious resistance to evolutionary theory, which is understandable and less irrational (Steinfels par, 17). I agree that scientific enthusiasts need to recognize and understand the religious opposition to evolutionary theory rather than simply ignore and dismiss it. For scientific enthusiasts, examining their own assumptions and the legitimate concerns on religious resistance to evolution is critical for greater modesty. Failure to do this will exacerbate the debate and result in a less-informed approach to deal with the opposition to evolutionary theory.