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As in 1925, creationists are not battling for religion…

“As in 1925, creationists are not battling for religion. They have been disowned by leading church men of all persuasions, for they debase religion even more than they misconstrue science. They are a motley collection to be sure, but their core of practical support lies with the evangelical right…” quote by Stephen Jay Gould
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“As in 1925, creationists are not battling for religion. They have been disowned by leading church men of all persuasions, for they debase religion even more than they misconstrue science. They are a motley collection to be sure, but their core of practical support lies with the evangelical right, and creationism is a mere stalking horse or subsidiary issue in a political program...The enemy is not fundamentalism; it is intolerance. In this case, the intolerance is perverse since it masquerades under the 'liberal' rhetoric of 'equal time'.”

Stephen Jay Gould

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Creationism is used politically, not religiously, and the real problem is intolerance disguised as liberalism.

In simple terms: Creationism is a political tool; intolerance is the true enemy.

Key Takeaway

Recognize political motives behind scientific claims.

Themes

politics religion intolerance science media

Mood

critical analytical concerned

Type

explanatory critical

When to use this quote

  • educational policy
  • media analysis
  • public debates
  • church‑state relations

Key Concepts

secularism political manipulation public discourse

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does political framing affect public perception of science?
  • What strategies reveal hidden intolerance?
A Different Perspective

Intolerance can be hidden behind claims of fairness, making it hard to address.

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