Evolution should be taught in schools

Thanks to Con for his opening arguments. Allow me to respond. Defining the context of evolutionThis might seem too obvious from the start, surely? We’ve already defined evolution. True, we have. But I think it is important to make a distinction between the two meanings behind the word (when used in the biological context); so to understand which one we will be debating in this debate. The first context is the biological phenomenon, which has been defined for the purposes of this debate today, as: “Genetic variation in a given population of organisms over a span of time.” The second context of the word when using “evolution” in biological terms refers to the over-arching theory, with universal common ancestry (UCA), common descent, etc… So, in which context are we debating today? Clearly the first, because the definition given cannot possibly refer to the second context. As a result, any objections given about UCA, common descents etc…are totally irrelevant for this debate today. My case for evolutionCon has already defined evolution for us. But what does it mean, exactly? Well, “genetic variation” merely means that the "genes of an organism in a given population change"[1]. A given population of organisms is simple: a number of living things in the same species in an area. So, a given population of humans in a town; a given population of mice in a hectare; a given population of monkeys in the Amazon rainforest, etc… (I should hope “over a span of time” is obvious and doesn’t need to be defined. If Con would like, however, I will gladly do so.) Has this been observed? Yes, of course it has! For example, take the famous E. coli experiment being carried out by Richard Lenski[2] at this very moment! Thus far, he has reported various genetic changes[3], including the adaptation for one strain of E. coli to be able to use citric acid as a carbon source in an aerobic environment![3] It is truly fascinating. So, we have genetic variation over not just one but several given populations over a span of time. By definition, we have observed evolution! It has been proven with many other experiments, too.[4] (Please note, this was a very brief proof of evolution and I haven’t devoted too much space to it. The reason for this comes up for my next point.) Granting Con’s benefitLet us assume, for the sake of the argument that Con is 100% correct. It’s all wrong! There is no evolution. His contentions are completely accurate etc… OK. Does that give significant enough reason for it to be banned from schools? Should it be taught in schools? Well, let’s have a closer look at the resolution. It clearly states: “in schools” and not “in science classes”. So, I propose that [under the assumption that evolution is wrong] we teach it in history lessons. The significance of evolution is very great! How can such a false movement under the guise of science be denied to pupils? It’s a serious question. We don’t deny the world wars or (for America) the American Civil war, because they were so great. There is no rational reason to deny evolution being taught in history classes. Significant points in evolution include: Darwin[5] The evolution controversy[6] (especially in America) The biologists who lied about it[7] – this one especially promotes critical thinking to students. Why did they lie? Why were they convinced? Were they convinced after all? These questions are very useful and tie in well with such a proposal! ConclusionsI have explained how we are debating the biological phenomenon and not the over-arching theory, making Con’s point’s somewhat irrelevant for this debate. (If he would like to debate on the over-arching theory I’m more than open to a debate challenge) I have given evidence for evolution, as defined. I have also granted Con’s benefit and shown how, even then, we should teach evolution in schools. Thanks to everyone, and I’ll see you all around! Source(s): [1] http://biology.about.com... [2] http://en.wikipedia.org... [3] http://en.wikipedia.org... [4] http://en.wikipedia.org... [5] http://en.wikipedia.org... [6] http://en.wikipedia.org... [7] http://en.wikipedia.org...