With a mere three hours before Pennsylvania’s polls close…
Recently, the Discovery Institute, a Christian think tank most widely known for its promotion of “Intelligent Design,” has announced plans to work with Senator Rick Santorum in designing a new “equal opportunity” curriculum for American public schools. The Discovery Institute and Senator Santorum have a fond history together: Senator Santorum once attempted to insert a provision in the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 that would call for the teaching of “Intelligent Design” along side of evolution. Fortunately, this provision did not become law. However, the Discovery Institute and Senator Santorum will not give up so easily; they march on together.
The president of the Discovery Institute, Bruce Chapman, and Senator Santorum issued the following joint statement:
“It is our heartfelt opinion that a solid education requires that students hear all sides of an issue. This kind of education extends beyond the science classroom. So, while we still urge Congress to support Intelligent Design, we are here today to propose changes to the broader curriculum. Let us begin with History. History teachers claim to teach “facts.” However, they get these “facts” from great historical documents and historical record keeping. For instance, we have come to understand the founding of our great nation because of the notes kept by the founders during meetings of the Continental Congress. But, let us pose a question: who are the greatest record keepers of all time? Here are just a few: Matthew, John, Luke, Mark. Yes, for too long, the Bible’s historical significance has been ignored in public schools. We suggest that the Bible be required reading in all History classes. These great men were historians, and to omit them from the classroom simply because they followed the teachings of the Lord amounts to no more than secular persecution of religion. We are by no means suggesting that Christianity should be taught or that the contemporary academic view of History is wrong, and suggesting that either the Discovery Institute or Senator Santorum has an ‘agenda’ would be childish. We simply seek the best education for our children.
With that in mind, let us turn to English and Literature. Throughout their education, American students read the classics: Death of a Salesman, The Scarlet Letter, Of Mice and Men, The Lord of the Flies, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Beowulf, Hamlet, etc. But, one undeniable classic has been arbitrarily removed from this list: the Bible. The Bible is very important piece of literary non-fiction. The plot is very involved, and the characters are dynamic. The word choice is impeccable; indeed, it is infallible. In short, the Bible is a great piece of literature. Once again, we do not suggest that Christian morality be instilled in American students. We simply believe that reading the Bible is essential for the development of a true understanding of literary history.
For too long academic, liberal, and secular elites have developed curricula unchallenged, leading to a bland, one-sided education for our children. Our children deserve better. They deserve not only to be taught what is right, but also what is wrong. It is up to them to make that determination for themselves. Thank you, and may God bless you all.”
