The Evolution of a Controversy

• In Event: Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: Division L Poster Session

Abstract

I draw similarities between the historical struggle to outlaw the teaching of evolutionary theory and the contemporary struggle to redefine the teaching of climate change as “controversial” and therefore subject to the requirements of the “controversial issues” policy. Whether the goal of public education is to produce democratic citizens, allow for social mobility, or serve as an efficient training ground for workers (Labaree, 1997), the failure to teach children scientifically accepted theories will culminate in a failure to graduate students with the skills necessary to gain access to STEM employment opportunities.

Author

• Robert William Danielson, University of Southern California