Appearance Quote by Michael Shermer
““Creationists have also changed their name ... to intelligent design theorists who study 'irreducible complexity' and the 'abrupt appearance' of life—yet more jargon for 'God did it.' ... Notice that they have no interest in replacing evolution with native American creation myths or including the Code of Hammurabi alongside the posting of the Ten Commandments in public schools.””
About This Quote
He critiques the rebranding of creationist arguments as intelligent design, noting it still serves a religious agenda.
In simple terms: Intelligent design is a rebranded creationist argument.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden motives in scientific claims.
Themes
science
religion
politics
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
political
educational
When to use this quote
- education curriculum
- public school policy
- science communication
Key Concepts
intelligent design
creationism
public policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape public perception of scientific ideas?
- What criteria should guide inclusion of ideas in curricula?
A Different Perspective
Labeling can obscure underlying motives.
![“Intelligent design theorists have learned a few lessons from the failures of their predecessors and have devised a more sophisticated strategy to compete head on with evolution. One of the main things they [intelligent design creationists] have learned is what not to say. A major element of their…” quote by Robert T. Pennock](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/45e/robert-t-pennock-94367_evolution_intelligent-design-theorists-have-learne_1617834.jpg)
