Let kids be part of great debate

Is it an irony that the Nunavik debate on evolution comes at a time when Dan Brown’s infamous book The Da Vinci Code compels all who read it?

For those who have not read The Da Vinci Code and its prequel Angels & Demons, the focus of the book is never far from the Science vs. Religion debate.

While reading Angels & Demons I came across a paragraph noting how the theory of evolution is only taught in half of America’s schools. After reading this statement, I reflected on my own school years and came to the realization that I was not taught this theory in school. This is not surprising, however as I attended Catholic schools in Ontario for over 10 years. Even though I was not taught the evolution theory in school I was certainly aware of it, many thanks to television and media.

One of Dan Brown’s characters in his book is a Catholic priest/scientist. Being a scientist and a priest is almost an oxymoron. Science and religion go together like oil and water and Mr. Brown’s character is in constant conflict with his scientific research and the beliefs of the Catholic Church. Dan Brown presented a very good argument on why a man of faith would seek scientific knowledge to counter his catholic beliefs. Simply put, God created this beautiful earth and all of the universe around it. Science is merely a means of understanding the intricate recipe God used to perform his work.

Science and religion are two separate entities seeking the same answers and solutions. To affirm the theory of evolution is not to contradict religious belief. In fact, they should complement each other.

In retrospect I am disappointed the Catholic school I attended did not teach me the theory of evolution because I would have at least had the choice on what I believe. Both religion and science promote democracy and the free choice of deducing our own decisions.

The theory of evolution is one of the biggest and greatest debates of modern mankind. Please do not prevent your children from engaging in this great debate.

Shawn Ittinuar-Edwards
Iqaluit