THE SANTORUM AMENDMENT

"The conferees recognize that a quality science education should prepare students to distinguish the data and testable theories of science from religious or philosophical claims that are made in the name of science. Where topics are taught that may generate controversy (such as biological evolution), the curriculum should help students to understand the full range of scientific views that exist, why such topics may generate controversy, and how scientific discoveries can profoundly affect society."

This amendment to the ‘Elementary and Secondary Education Act” known as “No Child Left Behind Act” is a revision of an original amendment written for Sen. Rick Santorum (Republican, PA) by the ‘godfather’ of the intelligent design creationist movement, Phillip Johnson. It is NOT part of the law as signed by President George Bush on 8 January 2002, but is in the report of the committee as a ‘sense of the Senate’ item.

Despite the fact that the amendment was NOT adopted as part of the law, creationists have repeatedly led people to believe that the U.S. Senate approved the amendment and, thus, that creationism should be taught in science courses.

The ID creationists will continue to try to spin this ‘amendment’ as having status in Federal law. People without knowledge of the truth may well accept such spin. In addition, creationists will try to use the statement as part of future legal arguments promoting creationism in science courses.

[Comments by V. H. Hutchison, for Oklahomans for Excellence in Science Education (OESE), 2004. This page may be freely copied and distributed as long as no changes are made]