Comments on an earlier paper by Lerner and von Eye on sociobiology and human development; general theory in science, especially evolutionary theory; adaptation and behavior plasticity; and modern behavior genetics. Examines assertion that "heritability says nothing about the extent to which a trait is commonly inherited." Discusses…

Describes the absorbent mind as the manifestation of individual unconscious and as the unconscious forces manifested in nature's evolution. The natural creative unconscious directs the instinctive balance of nonhuman lives. Human consciousness creates a conscious, human-made universe, a cultural and technological zone, which evolves on its own…

Presents an interview with biologist Stephen Jay Gould in which he discusses the state of biology education and the continuing debate over the evidence that supports the theory of evolution. (DDR)

Data from 212 high school biology students in two schools in Louisiana show that students bring increased religious bias to the classroom due to a resurgence of religious conservatism and that these beliefs interfere with their abilities to view scientific evidence about evolution objectively. Those who did not believe evolutionary theory cited…

Reviews the perspective of Donald Campbell on creative thought and argues that the role of blind variation and selective retention in Darwinian evaluation and human invention is different. Proposes that a contrast can be drawn between "smart" and "not so smart" blind variation. (CR)

Argues that while blind variation and selective retention (BVSR) may not be involved in all forms of human behavior and thought, Donald Campbell has made a compelling case that human creativity and invention involve BVSR. The complementary nature of prior and current BVSR in creative human endeavor is discussed. (Author/CR)

Critically reviews creationist ideas on the geology of the Grand Canyon, especially those found in "Grand Canyon: Monument to Catastrophe." Contains 27 references. (WRM)

Discusses the value of using primary literature in science education. Explains the educational goals of the course and assignments in the teaching process. Points out those concepts that the reader should know. (Contains 15 references.) (YDS)

Examines current views in Great Britain on the genetic basis of violence and crime. Argues that evolutionary heretics have a flawed understanding of genetics and defend an anti-scientific concept of free will. Maintains that arguments within Darwinism have allowed evolutionary heretics to promote their own agenda and to continue to abuse the most…

Describes a procedure that allows undergraduate students to determine the approximate age of the universe using their own data. The experiment requires a relatively small telescope with a modest spectrograph. Includes sample data and calculations. (Contains 11 references.) (Author/WRM)

Opines that there are three benefits to incorporating biology and other natural sciences into social studies programs: (1) students are exposed to interdisciplinary thinking; (2) social studies materials are placed on a more secure scientific basis; and (3) a biologized social studies program reveals human nature uncontaminated by recent culture.…

Suggests the time has come for humans to direct their own individual evolution and the evolution of the entire species. Argues that ways must be found to encourage individuals, families, and cultures to discover and develop their differentiating characteristics and help these groups integrate with other cultures, customs, and belief systems.…

Clarifies media reports that suggest that flood geology should be taught as part of the biology curriculum to provide support for the teaching of creationist theory. Analyzes the reports and provides support for response on the local level to these claims. (DDR)

Considers Stephen Jay Gould's writings on the nature of history, specifically on the relationship between science and history. Addresses the scientific method, the foundations and procedures of historical explanation in science, history as contingency, and evolution as history. (CMK)

Describes a study on establishing the current status of and exploring the relationships among the variables of high school biology teachers' acceptance of evolutionary theory and teacher understanding of the nature of science. (Contains 23 references.) (ASK)