Regarding the June 15 letter to the editor: “Theories built on fuzzy statements”:
The article is criticized for “fuzzy statements.” In fact, they are not “fuzzy” at all. They merely express the fact that there is not 100 percent certainty in all the specifics of early homo-sapiens that roamed Africa approximately 300,000 years ago. Given that enormous span of time, how could anyone speak with 100 percent certainty about these early humans?
But what is “fuzzy” is that which the author of the letter implies as an alternative to the data presented in the original article. He never uses the complete term, but what is being supported is the concept of “Young Earth Creationism.” This is the proposal that, despite mountains of evidence to the contrary, the Earth is only about 6,000 years old.
There is certainly not enough space allotted to these letters to allow a discussion of the settled science versus conjecture and religious dogma, but what is important is that we are being exposed to these “alternative facts” at all. I am sure readers of this publication are able to evaluate the evidence for themselves and reach their own conclusions. But the more important point is that the author of this letter, while representing the viewpoint of a small minority, has some surprising company in his corner.
The climate-science deniers who are disproportionately (compared to the general population) represented in the Trump administration, are joined by (if not also holding the same views as) adherents to the Young Earth Creationism belief. Among those identified to be in this group are cabinet members Ben Carson and Betsy DeVos, as well as Vice President Mike Pence. Given the influence that Education Secretary DeVos may exert on school curricula, and the incalculable influence the person who stands ready to become president should the current one, for whatever reason, leave office, the possibility that this unsubstantiated concept might be taught in schools alongside evolution as “science,” should be of concern to everyone.
Steve Guinn
Edmonds
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
