With all the other problems in the world right now, it won’t surprise you to learn that science is still under attack in the classroom. Evolution continues to be a point of contention in some states where various versions of “teaching both sides” are in full effect.

The New York Times recently spoke with pro- and anti-science advocates (though all the subjects, even the Creationists, believed they were on the side of science) for a 10 minute documentary. It’s a great primer if you’re trying to understand what the debate is about — and why credible scientists don’t believe this is a debate we need to be having.

Thus far, the Louisiana law is proving to be bulletproof. No court case has been brought against it, even if Dr. [Kenneth R.] Miller says somewhat dismissively that this is only because “the First Amendment protects you against imposition of religious ideas in the public schools — it doesn’t protect you against the introduction of stupid ideas.”

The video focuses on the Louisiana Science Education Act of 2008, which provides an opening to sneak Creationist ideas into the classroom, and mentions that several states have passed similar laws.

When you elect Republicans and put them in positions of power, beholden to an evangelical Christian base, stupid ideas about science tend to rise to the top, don’t they?

The problem is they think their bad ideas deserve respect without earning it. It’s the same with religion. Neither belongs in a public school classroom.

(Thanks to Scott for the link)