Sunday, May 22, 2005

15 answers to creationist nonsense and the outcome of one theocratic sta

Science & Technology at Scientific American.com: 15 Answers to Creationist Nonsense -- Opponents of evolution want to make a place for creationism by tearing down real science, but their arguments don't hold up. (July 2002)

A useful reference if you want to try to fight for the enlightenment. Personally I'd be happy to settle for protecting the teaching of science and introducing an hour a day of mandatory Republican theology. That solution, at least, would have the virtue of honesty. Grrr.

But ...

Much as I may fume about America's latest 'awakening', and our transition towards a theocratic society, it's worth noting that I was born into a true theocratic state. The result should be a warning to American fundamentalists opposing the separation of church and state.

I was born in Quebec, a state-within-a-nation ruled by the Catholic church. Quebec was a true, classic, theocratic state until the 1960s, when church rule collapsed and the province underwent the fastest 'demographic transition' in the history of the west. I think it was called it the 'quiet revolution', but it's largely unknown outside of the province. Except for a convulsive episode of terrorism that killed at least one man the transition was relatively benign.

In my childhood all education was religious, and although they were retiring several of my high school teachers were still priests and nuns. My high school world history text proclaimed the just wonders and miracles of the Children's Crusade -- I was too honest to steal a copy, but I wish I had one now. I did have real science teachers (and good ones too), but my favorite nun knew me (fondly actually) as the 'ape man'.

What was the outcome of this theocratic rule? Empty churches, no priests, and a profound cyncism about religion. Quebec is slowly recovering but the church is still a spent force 40 years after the revolution.

American fundamentalists should take note. Victory may turn sour.

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