It is an American assumption that science and religion are mortal enemies from the time immemorial, yet this assumed enmity is really a recent phenomenon. In truth, the Catholic and then Protestant churches fostered scientific thinking as a way to better know God. Only when the findings of science contradicted those of a literal reading of the Bible did trouble arise, and then only in certain churches of Christian persuasion. That religion and science are two ways of knowing which are separated in first principles, but which are equally valid approaches to knowing different aspects of the world we live in.
Gardens develop over time as a response to the interaction between soil, climate and culture.
By observing and investigating these interactions we can learn the scientific basis of environmental stewardship of natural resources. From schools focused on traditional Mayan farming systems in Meso-America to California schools making the link between home cultural knowledge and science learning, gardens become a living laboratory for mutual exploration and discovery. This illustrated discussion will examine a number of common misconceptions regarding evolution by natural selection including the nature of evolution itself, the role of the Galapagos Islands in the discovery, the impact of the finches on Darwin's thinking, and the interplay of religion and evolution in modern society. Her journey into the world's greatest jungle was also a trip back in time and a foray into a mythical, enchanted world where people say the dolphins can turn into people and dance with the men and women on land. His books, which include the Backyard Buddies and Naturalist's Apprentice series, are known for their humor and focus on the science process.