Secularists are concerned that some religious groups are trying to introduce creationism into the science classroom. In 2007, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe highlighted the threat posed by creationism in the framework of a resolution ‘The dangers of creationism in education’. This resolution was adopted after a long debate, despite attempts from some countries and organizations to block its adoption, which only serves to highlight the need for vigilance in this area.
It is imperative that creationism, including its new forms such as Intelligent Design, does not get the foothold in science classes it so desperately craves. The theory of evolution is frequently dismissed as “just a theory like any other” without admitting it has overwhelming support from scientists. The difference between the subject matter of science and matters of faith must be made clear to all students.
Putting discussion of creationism off limits from science classes may seem to betray the principle of scientific inquiry. We reluctantly advocate this because teachers are increasingly facing hostility from pupils if they are dismissive of creationism.