Religion and Education

1. Well, needless to say, the debate goes on! I recently read two articles on this debate that addressed some of the main issues concerning this topic. Moment of Silence and Evolution Theory are huge issues that continue to be taken to court. There are so many mixed emotions on the two topics. In the article "Religion in Schools Debate Heats Up", the author refers to a court case in Illinois where a federal judge ruled against requiring students to observe a moment of silence for prayer or personal reflection. The judge did so due to the fact that it stole the student's personal choice in that it forced religion on public school children.
Another case in Texas dealt with how evolution in the classroom. Biologists and social conservatives are now trying to revise the curriculum to make it harder for teachers to discuss possible weaknesses in evolution theory. However, the to date, the courts have banned teaching creationism and "intelligent design" in biology courses.

2. My feelings on the two opposing views of both of these topics include a sense of sadness and compassion. I personally think it is sad that we are having these debates. In today's society, I think it is very important to keep an open mind that accepts all types of religion and pulls the good from each. As a child, I grew up in a household that did not claim to be one form of religion. Instead of forcing a certain religion upon their children, my parents left it up to us to explore all of the different types of religions available and chose whichever one resonated the most with us. In doing so, I think this allowed each one of my siblings and I an opportunity to gain an added appreciation for religions that we had not previously had.