West Wing on Intelligent Design

The West Wing
Season 7, Episode 4
"Mr. Frost"

Clifford Reynolds, English teacher: "Do you believe that the theory of Intelligent Design and the theory of Evolution should be taught along side each other in the public schools?"

Matthew Santos, Presidential Candidate: "Absolutely not. One is based on science and one is based on faith. Intelligent Design is not a scientific theory, it is a religious belief, and our Constitution does not allow for the teaching of religion in our public schools."

CR: "Many of us here would be more comfortable if our children were taught all points of view."

MS: "And I'm all for that. Evolution is not perfect - doesn't answer every question - but it is based on scientific facts: facts that can be predicted, tested and proven. Intelligent Design asks theological questions. I'm sure that many of us would agree that at the beginning of all that begatting, something begun. What was that something?"

CR: "Congressman Santos, many of us want a version of science taught to our kids that's in accordance with our beliefs."

MS: "I understand. But can't we agree that the inclusion of non-scientific explanations into the science curriculum of our schools misrepresents the nature of science? And therefore compromises a central purpose in our public education, which is the preparation of a scientifically literate workforce."

"If you have a problem with your child's education, get involved. If you have a problem with what the school board wants to teach, run for the school board. We can never forget that the best way to preserve our democracy is to take part in it."

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"... The inclusion of non-scientific explanations into the science curriculum of our schools misrepresents the nature of science..." I've never heard it phrased better. Wouldn't it be cool if we all had screenwriters following us around?

Incidentally, have you seen ABC's "Commander in Chief?" ...Terrible.