Unlike animals, which heal, trees compartmentalize by setting boundaries that resist the spread of invading microorganisms. Discusses the creation of new walls by anatomical and chemical means in response to death of a branch or pruning. Points out that genetic control of compartmentalization has resulted from evolution of resistant species. (DH)

Interviews with 84 students (12- to 16-year-olds) suggest they have a poor understanding of biological education. Students' responses, question context influences, age trends, and implications for biology teachers are discussed. Among conclusions are: (1) Most students use teleological and anthropomorphic explanations; and (2) evolution should be…

This paper proposes that any depth of understanding of environmental indices (and therefore, their determination) can be achieved only through the establishment of the evolutionary paradigm as the fundamental basis of all the environmental-biological problems Man encounters. Evolutionary theory could be used in the understanding of other parametal…

This paper looks in detail at the "natural" causes of extinction as compared to the "technological" causes of extermination (abrupt niche-emptying), using examples of species that are both extinct and exterminated. Ways are suggested that can put a halt to extermination. (BT)

This article presents a debate by two evolutionists, Ronald D. Simpson and Wyatt W. Anderson, and two creationists, Lane P. Lester and John N. Moore, over whether or not special creation should be taught in biology courses alongside the biological theory of evolution. (SL)

This paper is linked to the theme History and Philosophy of Science. The Evolution and creation science controversy is now in the general public's arena and poses a challenge for school science. The paper begins by briefly describing the current situation concerning this issue in Australia and the United States of America. In the subject Biology,…

This paper discusses the beginning of life on Earth, the formation of life forms, evolution, and the origin of life. The paper suggests that how life first appeared on earth is not known and may never be known. (YDS)

This paper addresses the effects of the controversies involved in one state's decision to exclude the study of evolution from its science curriculum and to require equal time for creationism as an alternative theory. Curricula and textbooks are examined for the impacts of evolutionary and creationist controversies. The controversy is discussed…

This teacher's guide was developed to assist teachers in the use of multimedia resources for the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) program, "Evolution." Each unit uses an inquiry-based approach to meet the National Science Education Standards. Units include: (1) "What is the Nature of Science?"; (2) "Who Was Charles Darwin?"; (3) "What is the…

This paper defines the processes of evolution and natural selection for the non-scientist, and summarizes its history in the context of scientific racism. Types of creationism are defined, and both evolution and creationism are contextualized in the theoretical frameworks of modernism and postmodernism. The philosophical differences between…

Possible reasons for the current resurgence of biological determinism are discussed. Deterministic arguments are classified as being based on the general human species or based on presumed differences among racial groups. The first type of argument is presented and some alternate interpretations proposed. (LS)

The study of origin and evolution of man gives new perspective for understanding his behavior. Physical behaviors such as walking and throwing are results of biological evolution which has not kept pace with sociocultural evolution. Irrational decisions by man in social, cultural, and political fields are results of this brain activity. (PS)

Direct observations of animal behaviors can provide clues to understanding human behavior. By such observations of animals close to man, certain behavior patterns have been established. Man's behavior in social and cultural fields is an adaptation of these behavior patterns. (PS)

This article briefly examines the myths which have historically relegated women to secondary positions of influence. With changing roles, relationships, and life styles, our current value system will have to be altered. (CJ)