…and this is a 
We had hopes that the mad creationist dentist, Don McLeroy, would be booted from the Texas Board of Education. No such luck: I just received this call to action in the mail.
Moments ago at a surprise meeting, the Senate Nominations Committee voted to send the nomination of Don McLeroy, R-College Station, to the full Senate for confirmation as State Board of Education (SBOE) chair. This sets up a major showdown on the floor of the Texas Senate, likely next Monday or Tuesday.
Even though we have already asked you to call your senator about this issue, now we must do so again: please take a moment to contact your senator and tell him or her to vote against Don McLeroy as SBOE chair. (See below for some simple examples of why the Senate should reject McLeroy. Click here to find your senator.)
Though numerous news outlets reported that McLeroy's nomination was blocked after an embarrassing hearing before the Senate committee last month, it appears a flurry of calls from religious-right pressure groups has reinvigorated McLeroy's nomination. Many of these groups are claiming that McLeroy is a victim of religious persecution:
"It is hard to believe that in the United States of America, religious discrimination at the level of the Texas Legislature has occurred. Dr. McLeroy is being vilified and condemned because he is a Christian and holds a Biblical worldview of creation." -- E-mail alert dated May 19, 2009
That kind of accusation is both ridiculous and offensive. McLeroy's nomination is in trouble because the board under his chairmanship has made Texas a national laughingstock. The decision to confirm or deny McLeroy's appointment is a clear referendum on the outrageous antics of the State Board of Education.
It requires just 11 senators to reject a confirmation. But we need your help to find 11 reasonable senators who believe education policy should not be held hostage to the personal and political agendas of extremists on the state board.
The religious right recognizes the importance of having McLeroy as board chair. If we don't match their passion and determination, we can expect two more years of "culture war" battles fought on the backs of Texas schoolchildren.
This is the fool we have to get off the board. The man who declared, "Somebody's gotta stand up to experts".
Please, Texans, save us. Call your representative right away.
Comments
Posted by: K.R. | May 20, 2009 7:39 PM
People like Don McElroy make me ashamed to be a Texan. We aren't all like that. . .
Posted by: c.layne | May 20, 2009 7:40 PM
Texas State Senator Rodney Ellis live in the building I work at. I frequently let him know how I feel about the Texas BoE and he definitely seems to be in agreement. So there's one!
Posted by: The Science Pundit
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May 20, 2009 7:44 PM
I get queasy whenever a creationist invokes Stephen J. Gould.
Posted by: Stefan | May 20, 2009 7:48 PM
Oye vey es mir! What do I hear: "Let's train our Texan children to stop thinking and start drinkin..." I just dont' get it - people like this guy have never looked into what they are saying...How many million years does the so called Cambrian Explosion last? What does he mean they don't change? Idiota! Why quote Gould when he 100% disagreed with what this ars is saying? Why quote Darwin when we've had 150 years to improve on his understanding? He is attempting character assassination.
Posted by: Trug
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May 20, 2009 7:51 PM
I'm so glad that we have a balding, pudgy creationist to stand up to those wicked experts for us. With their smarts and nice personalities, they make me just SICK!
I do live in Texas, unfortunately, but whenever I try to contact any of the senators here all I get back are boilerplate "Thank you for your concern regarding _________, Mr _________". So call me a pessimist, but I have an uncanny feeling that this guy is going to make it through the approval process.
Posted by: Glen Davidson | May 20, 2009 7:52 PM
It's always persecution when you're trying to keep someone from teaching about "god" at gov't expense.
That's just because the religious have rights (in their view), while the non-religious do not, though.
Glen D
http://tinyurl.com/6mb592
Posted by: bobxxxx | May 20, 2009 7:55 PM
Yeah, only the vast majority of Texans are just like that.
Not that my state is any better (FloriDUH).
Posted by: RichVR | May 20, 2009 7:56 PM
He uses words that he thinks are "big words" but he doesn't understand them. And he holds up a sheaf of papers at one point and talks about his "evidence" but it obviously has nothing to do with what he's babbling about.
I need a drink.
Posted by: SphinctOr | May 20, 2009 7:57 PM
Wow. He reminds me of Dr. Phil.
I think I just vomited in my mouth a little...
Posted by: slugbug | May 20, 2009 8:00 PM
I would try, but my senator, Dan Patrick, is as bad as McLeroy.
Posted by: Joseph | May 20, 2009 8:01 PM
Just to be clear, this is only to confirm McLeroy as the chairman. If this goes down, McLeroy stays on the board until his term is up, and Governor Perry will then pick a chairperson who won't undergo confirmation until 2011. So we may be trading a devil we know for a devil we don't.
Do you think Perry will pick a more rational person if it seems like McLeroy is a Christian martyr? I doubt it.
Posted by: RamblinDude
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May 20, 2009 8:04 PM
Bit of the Glenn Beck in him, isn’t there?
Posted by: Xenithrys | May 20, 2009 8:05 PM
"That kind of accusation is both ridiculous and offensive. McLeroy's nomination is in trouble because the board under his chairmanship has made Texas a [INTER]national laughingstock."
(We're laughing here in New Zealand too; not at Texas, but at the stoopid)
Posted by: Bjørn Østman | May 20, 2009 8:12 PM
"Phylas" ??
Leroy's mischaracterization of the Cambrian Explosion really hurts my brain. No "sudden appearance." Over a period of about 80 million years!
"The opposition are wonderful people." Argh, shut up!
Posted by: Ediacaran | May 20, 2009 8:12 PM
I called my state senator's office, and left a message that she oppose McLeroy's nomination for chairman of the TX SBOE. Of course, our anti-education governor will simply nominate one of the other Fundamentalists on the State Board of "Education".
Texans: As Stupid As They Want To Be.
Posted by: CalGeorge | May 20, 2009 8:15 PM
What a blowhard that guy is!
Posted by: Michael Goff | May 20, 2009 8:17 PM
Why do they always use the "Cambrian Explosion" as a benchmark when at the same time saying "Suddenly"?
Posted by: Patricia, Queen of Sluts OM
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May 20, 2009 8:21 PM
That guy sounds just like the moron PZ destroyed with the truth about the fossil record in his radio debate.
Posted by: Sastra
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May 20, 2009 8:21 PM
The Cambrian exploded in the same way that the Big Bang actually went "bang!" It must be fun to be a literalist.
Posted by: Mbee | May 20, 2009 8:26 PM
What is all this about 'stasis'. The fossil record is full of change.
He even said that himself that the older rocks show simple lifeforms and the more complex appear in the younger rocks. How on earth can that be stasis!
If the creationists were correct all life forms would be found in all layers of rock and they would all be less than 6000 years old! Someone needs to think a little... or maybe a lot.
Posted by: b. j. edwards | May 20, 2009 8:26 PM
I'm afraid it's going to take a lot of organizing, demonstrating, publicity, and money to make the McLeroy's of Texas, the Governor, and the legislators feel any political consequences for their irrational actions. So far, they quietly talk behind the scenes, get what they want and feel no consequences.
Posted by: RichVR | May 20, 2009 8:32 PM
Why did I get the feeling that he wanted to say "God" a whole shitload of times?
Posted by: RamblinDude
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May 20, 2009 8:41 PM
Sastra,
Exactly! And once they get their heads wrapped around the "bangs" and "explosions,” and “crocoducks,” and life “poofing” into existence,” and have had a good chuckle among themselves at how silly all those scientists are for believing such things, they’re like terriers--they will not let go.
Posted by: kimberly b. | May 20, 2009 8:42 PM
I consider myself an intelligent person with a basic understanding of evolution and the fossil record, but I am not ashamed to admit that I did not understand a lot of what Mc Elroy was saying in that video. I am unashamed because I am certain that people smarter than me didn't understand him either.
Posted by: fftysmthg | May 20, 2009 8:55 PM
He sure talked a lot but, didn't say anything.
Posted by: Citizen Z | May 20, 2009 8:56 PM
"If I had known I would've had to debate this even more today, I would've brought all my evidence. I have the Time. Magazine. ...cover."
Posted by: norm! | May 20, 2009 9:00 PM
My state senator is Steve Ogden. The last time I called his office, the aid that answered did not know Ogden's position on the issue. That office will hear from me again tomorrow.
For those of you worried that this is all in vain, that his replacement will be just as bad or worse, remember that our voices are loudest when our issue is on the table. This is our time to speak. Congress can safely ignore us when they're discussing farm subsidies or college admission, but not now. Don't be shy! Don't back down!
Posted by: The Tim Channel
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May 20, 2009 9:02 PM
Burning Withes America 2009
http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/blogs/timtimes/2009/05/burning-witches---america-2009.php
Enjoy.
Posted by: Citizen Z | May 20, 2009 9:04 PM
"It's not complicated. It doesn't take mathematics." - Don McLeroy, 2009.
"Math is hard! Let's go shopping!" - Teen Talk Barbie, 1994
Posted by: Ryan F Stello | May 20, 2009 9:17 PM
That video was priceless.
More choice quotes:
"I would have brought all my evidence. I have a Time magazine cover that says Darwin's Big Bang or it says evolution's Big Bang because of the Cambrian Explosion."
"it's the absolute science. it's data. it's obverifiable. it's objective"
"My two amendments, which look like they're going to be taken out unless somebody listens to my impassioned plea.."
What a self-absorbed ball of dough.
Posted by: Benjamin Geiger | May 20, 2009 9:20 PM
I think I prefer:
Posted by: Joe
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May 20, 2009 9:21 PM
I can't even watch this all the way through. The amount of lies these "ethical, moral" assholes spout sickens me. I just hate watching the same lies repeated over and over and over. Just disgusting.
Posted by: Benjamin Geiger | May 20, 2009 9:22 PM
Agh! Crap!
PZ, could you please obliterate #31?
(Linky to image.)
Posted by: Ryan F Stello | May 20, 2009 9:33 PM
That video was priceless.
More choice quotes:
"I would have brought all my evidence. I have a Time magazine cover that says Darwin's Big Bang or it says evolution's Big Bang because of the Cambrian Explosion."
"it's the absolute science. it's data. it's obverifiable. it's objective"
"My two amendments, which look like they're going to be taken out unless somebody listens to my impassioned plea.."
What a self-absorbed ball of dough.
Posted by: Ryan F Stello | May 20, 2009 9:34 PM
Arggh. Sorry for the double-post. Somehow my refresh became a repost.
Posted by: Newfie
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May 20, 2009 9:46 PM
I was with him for the first couple of minutes... and then he went all snaky crazy... who is this guy?
A dentist talking about biological origins? Well then, I just might have to ask my plumber about the shingles on my roof... and he's a real good plumber.. he's the guy that I go to for shingles.
My electrician still hasn't fixed my computer.
Posted by: Frank Lovell
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May 20, 2009 9:49 PM
Holy Shiite! I can think of one -- but only one -- good thing about this sorry state of developing Texas affairs: perhaps Texas can now take the heat/spotlight off we Kentuckians (whose state hosts the Answers In Genesis anti-evolution organization and their Young Earth Creationist "museum") as our country's most backward-looking state. We could use a break (it took we Kentuckians over 40 years to start living down the reputation of America's Hillbilly State that Al Capp's Li'l Abner cartoon strip saddled us with -- then just when we thought we finally had that licked, Ken Ham came to our state and made it the headquarters state for AiG).
Posted by: Bernie | May 20, 2009 10:00 PM
I've never seen a better example of a (very) little knowledge being a dangerous thing.
And I go to my doctor for shingles...
Posted by: Rick Schauer | May 20, 2009 10:04 PM
Between 3:00 and 3:15 he talks about honesty and some mumbo-gumbo facts...he's really demonstrating the ability to be a subject in a Dunning-Kruger study.
Posted by: Flounder | May 20, 2009 10:05 PM
S.J. Gould: I heard what you were saying. You, you know nothing of my work. You mean my whole fallacy is wrong. How you ever got to teach a course in anything is totally amazing.
(boy, if life where only like this)
Posted by: The Sanity Inspector
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May 20, 2009 10:11 PM
...teh stoopid, make it stop...
Posted by: kamaka | May 20, 2009 10:14 PM
So I made it through 3 1/2 minutes of this twit's dispicable rantings.
Is it against the law for me to slap him upside the head? 'Cause I really think he needs a few dope-slaps.
Posted by: «bønez_brigade»
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May 20, 2009 10:27 PM
The "Time magazine cover" comment was entertaining, especially since it came right after "I would've brought all my evidence".
Posted by: Steven Dunlap | May 20, 2009 10:28 PM
@Posted by: Sastra | May 20, 2009 8:21 PM
Although I realize it's a bit off topic, one day when I was surfing around through del.icio.us to scout what the more popular pages about science (high number of people were linking to them). I found somebody ranting about the Greenhouse Effect being a big hoax and a put-on. His evidence: the earth is not enclosed by green tinted glass!
The seemingly inherent inability for many of these people to distinguish between reality on the one hand and the analogies or metaphors used to make simplified explainations on the other causes no end of crazy stuff like what's on this video. (Hint to McLeroy: the map is not the terrain). Although only my own unverifiable opinion (or obverifiable - love that one) I doubt that he knows how dishonest he sounds to us. I suspect his thinking is just that muddled.
Posted by: Dr.Woody
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May 20, 2009 10:32 PM
People like Don McElroy make me ashamed to be a Texan. We aren't all like that. . .
WTF, dood! He's from College Station. That's where Texas A&M is. Usually, there are a few reasonable people in and around the campuses of major univeristies. So I gotta believe that, if all y'all aren't like that, there's a considerable, and probably toxic--number who are...
Posted by: codegrok
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May 20, 2009 10:43 PM
To: Honorable John Carona
From: [scrubbed]
Please do all you can to support science education in the State of Texas by opposing the nomination of Don McLeroy as the State Board of Education (SBOE) chair.
As a parent with children in the Math, Science and Technology Magnet programs within Richardson ISD, I feel strongly that Mr. Don McLeroy's views undermine the foundations of science education. Also as an executive with a Richardson technology firm, I think it is critical that Texas set high standards for our scientific education programs, but Mr. McLeroy's public statements make a mockery of scientific analysis and investigation. The SBOE chair should be a person of reason and intellect. Mr. McLeroy exhibits neither.
Sincerely,
[scrubbed]
Posted by: PinheadX | May 20, 2009 10:54 PM
I've pretty much given up trying to fight this shit... my rep is Dan Patrick, so I'm totally beating a dead horse trying to get anything resembling reason or logic out of my representative.
I'll just wait for Kinky Friedman to run for guv again and hope he can fix this shit.
Posted by: Procyon | May 20, 2009 11:05 PM
What a tool.
Posted by: Callif | May 20, 2009 11:10 PM
Wow...
He sounds like a fool.
Posted by: nkb | May 20, 2009 11:11 PM
Is it just me, or does McLeroy sound like Dubya, when he's trying to wing it without a prepared speech?
As a transplanted Texan, it is nothing short of embarrassing to have people like this in any kind of position of authority (and that includes Rick Perry).
Anyone have any knowledge of the political leanings of Florence Shapiro? I will write her anyway, but I'm wondering how futile it will be.
Posted by: Pareidolius | May 20, 2009 11:33 PM
The pre-Cambrian's 80 million-year explosion was sudden only in the context of the three billion years before it.
Thermonuclear Stoopid.
Posted by: TechSkeptic
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May 20, 2009 11:38 PM
To all of you Texans commenting here who say something like "well my representative is [insert creationist knucklehead here]", I say this.
They are also politicians. If they hear enough times that they are on the wrong side of a debate and feel it may jeopardize their elected position, they may change or leave.
It doesn't hurt to let them know what you think, and it may help.
Posted by: kellyparkersgs | May 20, 2009 11:44 PM
I think McLeroy sound like Dubya. Am I right? and He looks like foolish. Wow
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Posted by: shamar
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May 21, 2009 12:24 AM
I'll definitely call...I live IN College Station!
shamarzblog
Posted by: waldteufel | May 21, 2009 12:51 AM
I did my part! I saddled up, and sent my state senator an e-mail urging him to deny the re-appointment of this mental midget.
But, my state senator, Tommy Williams, is a creationist, dumbass republican who thinks that Dubya was a great American thinker.
Ugh.
Posted by: SocraticGadfly | May 21, 2009 12:52 AM
KR @1, as a non-native currently in Dallas, I'm ready to be delivered to somewhere more sane, especially as long as Gov. Helmethair runs the asylum.
Shamar @54, my condolences.
PinheadX @47, no condolence for you. If you're dumb enough to drink the Kool-Aid of someone whose 2006 support mainly came from people who think Perry is a RINO, you deserve Dan Patrick.
Posted by: 386sx | May 21, 2009 1:01 AM
"I would have brought all my evidence. I have a Time magazine cover that says Darwin's Big Bang or it says evolution's Big Bang because of the Cambrian Explosion."
Yeaahhh we know what the evidence is. Quote mining and cheap tricks like confusion of the term "Big Bang".
Posted by: SocraticGadfly | May 21, 2009 1:05 AM
I'm writing Royce West both as private citizen and as newspaper editor, FWIW... Got me e-mail alert just about the time I came here.
Posted by: genesgalore | May 21, 2009 1:07 AM
the deluded do as the deluded does.. let hope the doodoo falls smack between their eyes.
Posted by: 386sx | May 21, 2009 1:08 AM
Lol, he thinks he's in a "debate" with experts. What a goof.
Posted by: Bill McElree | May 21, 2009 1:17 AM
Don McElroy has got to be the dimmest bulb on the tree of evolution. Either that or he is simply lying to protect his superstition. I hope I'm not related to that ass.
Posted by: lordshipmayhem
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May 21, 2009 1:22 AM
Dear Senators of the State of Texas:
I'd like to thank you for the opportunity to address this august body. I shall try to be brief; I know your time is valuable.
I respectfully request that you confirm the appointment of Dr. Don McLeroy, DDS, as chairman of the State Board of Education. This is why I believe that his appointment is desirable.
Over the past few years, the Province of Ontario has lost a tremendous number of manufacturing jobs. With great effort, we are attempting to replace those high-paying manufacturing jobs with new high-skill jobs, especially ones in the fields of sciences and high technology. Competition for these jobs remain quite severe, and any advantage our Province can get must be not just used, but ruthlessly abused to the greatest extent possible.
Placing an anti-science, anti-critical-thinking individual such as Dr. McLeroy will assist Toronto by reducing Texas' competitiveness for the types of careers requiring critical thinking. His preferred graduate, one who accepts what they're told without resorting to evidence, is perfect not only for the attitude we prefer to see in Ontario's competition but also in our clients. Such an unthinking, credulous customer base is quite easy to market too, as they'll happily purchase AOT ("any old thing").
So, in order to make Ontario a more prosperous and exciting place to do business, I can only conclude the best thing you can possibly do is confirm the appointment of Dr. Don McLeroy, DDS, as your state's chairman of the Board of Education. I believe I can trust you in making the best decision for this province.
Thank you.
Posted by: SocraticGadfly | May 21, 2009 1:34 AM
My e-mail to Royce West:
Dear Sen. West:
I write you as editor of Today Newspapers as well as a private citizen, and STRONGLY urge you to block the nomination of Don McLeroy to continue as chairman of the State Board of Education.
First, the in-the-evening nature of his nomination is fishy enough.
Second, when the nature of K-12 science education in Texas public schools is often iffy, to have this anti-scientific, anti-intellectual cretin continue to officially oversee the state's K-12 public education system is an insult -- an insult to science teachers in the state, science professors and students at state universities and more.
Third, he is NOT a victim of religious persecution. Rather, students of Texas public schools could be victims of more years of his persecution of sound science.
There cannot be a worse person on SBOE to chair it than McLeroy.
Posted by: thiolsulfate | May 21, 2009 1:37 AM
Don McLeroy makes me ashamed to be a dental student
Posted by: Helioprogenus | May 21, 2009 1:39 AM
What makes this stupid fucking bullbiscuit think he has enough evidence to challenge actual experts? You know, real scientists who have made it their life's work to investigate the universe with no preconceived notions. These real experts, through hard work and determination have embraced the concept of the scientific method, and struggle daily to analyze data and avoid biases and errors. The strictest peer review and detailed investigation into their theories allow for the rigorous tools that advance science and understanding.
There is nothing to be gained by pretending that gaps in the fossil record represent supernatural events. The Cambrian explosion has been thoroughly dissected, and yet, this nutjob continues to expose us to his rotten cerebral discharge. Well, you fucking turd, you can keep your festering discharge to yourself and your kind. It's sad that he's attempting to infect the minds of Texas schoolchildren.
McLeroy, the fucktard should also know that his opposition is not nice and considerate. We are not going to roll over on our backs so you can try to infect the minds of credulous people just to justify your ignorance. You can go fuck yourself, and maybe most of us atheists are calm rational people, but there is a line you cross, and deserve a violent response. The only thing keeping us going apeshit and smashing your skull through is recognizing the evolutionary changes that have allowed us to rationalize our thoughts, reason through violent urges, and actually empathize with even the most disgusting examples of human waste.
Posted by: nkb | May 21, 2009 2:14 AM
OK, here's my attempt (I hope some of you don't mind that I plagiarized a little):
Dear Senator Shapiro,
I am writing to you today to strongly urge you to support science education in Texas by opposing the nomination of Don McLeroy to continue as chairman of the State Board of Education.
As a concerned parent with young children just entering the school system, I feel strongly that Mr. Don McLeroy's views undermine the foundations of science education for years to come.
Also, as an electrical engineer, who relocated here from New York for a technical job more than 15 years ago, I urge you to consider the negative effect that this kind of anti-science stance will have on the ability of Texas to attract outstanding scientific and technical talent in the future.
I've read about your background in secondary education, and your strong involvement in this state's education system, and hope that you share my concerns.
Please stop letting Mr. McLeroy make us the laughing stock of the country.
Sincerely,
Posted by: Love F | May 21, 2009 2:57 AM
Silly americans. Texas is an international laughingstock, and it brings the rest of the states with it.
Posted by: Equisetum | May 21, 2009 3:36 AM
The following should put to rest any argument that Don McLeroy is not mixing religion with his politics:
Thoughts on Naturalism and Intelligent Design The Sunday School Lecture.
It's a lecture about Intelligent Design. And what is it's purpose?
Intelligent Design is a means of witnessing, and Don McLeroy is using the SBoE as a platform for witnessing.
'But he never mentions religion,' you say.
But that's just part of the wedge strategy (which he also mentions in the document). Here's one of the discussion questions:
Remember, this is a Sunday School Lesson. And he's recommending that his students not talk about religion?!
Also, there's this quote:
Well, of course they did. Just because you threw a blanket over the elephant you dragged into the room, doesn't mean they're not going to talk about the steaming pile of elephant shit on the floor.
This guy is nothing but a disingenuous Liar for Jebus.
Posted by: Heraclides | May 21, 2009 3:47 AM
Small correction:
McLeroy's nomination is in trouble because the board under his chairmanship has made Texas
a nationalan international laughingstockPosted by: Alexander | May 21, 2009 4:11 AM
Hey guys, data is scientific.
Also, this is scientific.
Yes, the data supports it, but yes, the data doesn't support it.
Posted by: Vidar34
|
May 21, 2009 4:14 AM
Since when did the word 'expert' become a derogatory term?
Also, is 'wonderful people' Texan code for 'people I want to kill' or something?
This man clearly doesn't know what he's talking about, and is unfit to make decisions on teaching evolution to children. Why do Americans keep voting idiots into high places? Haven't you learned anything from the Bush administration?
Idiot + power = disaster.
Posted by: MadScientist | May 21, 2009 4:26 AM
McRetard is the victim of religious persecution? Hahaha - what cry babies. McRetard is the villain, not the victim. The entire state is a victim of McRetard and his religious views.
Posted by: Moggie
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May 21, 2009 5:12 AM
Yeah! Somebody's gotta stand up to experts! Who does this "dentist" think he is, with his "ooh, look at me, I went to dental school, I'm a teeth expert"? It's just drilling and stuff, pal! Any idiot can do that! To hell with Big Dental, next time I have a toothache I'm going to find me a mechanic with a Dremel.
Posted by: Prof. Henry Armitage
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May 21, 2009 5:32 AM
What might be even more effective than individuals lobbying their congressmen, is if individuals lobby the science departments of the top Texas universities (and perhaps large corporations which depend on science) to lobby the congressmen.
Of course, doing both would be the most effective option.
Posted by: Fernando
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May 21, 2009 6:01 AM
Hm...
Are you sure that this man isnt a suporter of evolution, instead an suporter of creationism(lol)/inteligente design(lol)?
I ask that because his speech is so idiotic/comic, that even poor brainwashed people with this creation false ideas in their brains, will start to thinking about all their delusional ideas...
I dont know how many years someone is elected for the texan board of education, but let the man be elected; you will see in the end, his ignorance and apaling misunderstanding of scientific data, will show to a even greter number of people, the inanity of all the fairie tales defend by him and others ignorants.
Of course, to this works, he must speak freely in the board, but all his proposals defeated by the others (presunably more elightned)members of the board.
I love machiavelic plans! :D
Posted by: wasd | May 21, 2009 6:23 AM
No No No! NO!!, he is supposed to be a cdesign proponentist, remember!?!? Let the "discovery institute" explain this one more time!
Its all about "academic freedom to express a, non religious (honest to god!), scientific theory", and then they turn around and want protection from persecution of their religious view?
Saying he is being persecuted for his creationist views is like saying Kent Hovind would be persecuted by anyone opposing his nomination for a job at the IRS... And all just because the guy happens to have some views about the tax code that a judges happen to disagree with.
Posted by: Pimientita | May 21, 2009 6:49 AM
Yeah...he didn't realize this would be up for debate?! Has he not been on the Texas BOE for the past few years? Or did he just think that he would get points for NOT giving evidence.
Oh wait...I forgot who I was talking about.
That video was painful.
Posted by: The Other Elwood | May 21, 2009 7:04 AM
My company will likely be looking to expand into Texas within the next couple of years. Promotion or no, with four kids in elementary school, I am honestly not sure I will be willing to move there.
Posted by: Benjamin Geiger | May 21, 2009 7:08 AM
The Other Elwood:
If the job pays enough, you could probably afford private school. Are they still regulated by the DoE?
Posted by: Smoggy Batzrubble | May 21, 2009 7:18 AM
You atheists just can't stand seeing a good, Godly and honest Christian stand up for his faith and tell it like the Good Book says it is. If it wasn't for daring Don (the braveheart of the Southern states) we'd live in a world dominated by people who think rainbows are an effect of refracted light. Ha! They're a sign I tell you, of a Holy promise and leprechaun gold. Don't worry Mr McIllroy, if I wasn't a disenfranchised felon you'd have my vote. But fear not, the humble and loving folk at Westboro Baptist will be out in force to support you (I've just sent them a text saying that as well as being a champion against EVILution you also stand for public pillories and the burning of Adam and Steve).
In Christ all things are possible.
Amen
PS When you win, could you send me two big macs and a side of fries.
Posted by: The Other Elwood | May 21, 2009 7:18 AM
Maybe I could afford private school, but my taxes would still be going to support these shenanigans.
Posted by: Matt Penfold | May 21, 2009 7:35 AM
Do you think McLeroy would be happy for dental patients to do their own tooth extractions using whisky and and a pair of pliers ? After all, what are dentists if not experts in dental care ?
Better still, why not insist that the next time he requires dental treatment it be carried out by someone picked at random
of the street. Maybe with the pain he would likely suffer he would get the message that expertise matters.
Posted by: slang | May 21, 2009 7:37 AM
Oh my, what an embarassing speech. Don McLeroy oozes stupid.
Posted by: Aquaria | May 21, 2009 7:52 AM
Since most private schools in Texas are parochial, they aren't necessarily better than public schools--and not better enough to justify their costs in a depressing number of cases, A terrifying number are far worse than anything the SBOE would do to public schools. Secular choices are slim to none, even in large cities.
Plus, if you want secular, you will usually pay a premium for it. For instance, tuition at secular, all-girls Hockaday in Dallas costs well over $20K a year.
Great school. Too band most people can't afford it.
Posted by: Siina Järvi | May 21, 2009 8:21 AM
Not very eloquent, is he?
Posted by: ConcernedJoe | May 21, 2009 8:40 AM
Darn those evil sinful experts - like they are always so smug and godless and highfalutin. Lord .. why they think that being right and actually useful to society entitles them to something like attention, when we know that you are the only light and way one ever needs or should consider.
I send you this prayer: Let the light of my faith in you dear lord shine on those that mock you with their facts and may they feel the wrath of your righteous anger at their hard earned knowledge. Amen.
Posted by: Pascal | May 21, 2009 8:59 AM
I sent a message to my senator, Senator Florence Shapiro, District 8, Texas State Senate.
Here it is:
Dear Senator Shapiro,
I am a resident of your district, District 8. I
respectfully request that you do not vote to
confirm Don McLeroy as State Board of Education
(SBOE) chair. His views on science, especially the
topic of evolution, are not consistent with well
established and nearly universally accepted
scientific standards. It is vitally important that
our children are taught real science (not
religiously influenced opinion) and are given the
tools which equip them for life and work in a
world which requires knowledge and skills based on
scientific knowledge available to the rest of the
world. Mr. McLeroy stands in the way of this.
Please do not vote to confirm him to the SBOE
chairmanship. Thank you.
Posted by: John Scanlon, FCD | May 21, 2009 9:03 AM
I liked the way he said "Paley - uh - ntologists"
No, not really. Sounds far too much like George W., only more edumacated. 'Honest', bullshit: he never mentioned the word of the LORD once, and we all know that's where his motivation comes from.
Posted by: paramecium brain | May 21, 2009 9:11 AM
Here's you a new poll.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10103521/
Posted by: Krisko
|
May 21, 2009 9:16 AM
Damned experts, with their fancy knowledge and reason...
Posted by: uksceptic | May 21, 2009 9:21 AM
"Yes its hard to stand up to very brilliant wonderful people"
Especially when they are right and you are wrong.
Helioprogenus #65 Whilst your anger is warranted perhaps it is a little extreme. I don't condone Don McLeroy at all but I still don't think it warrants a violent response.
Posted by: Taylor Muse | May 21, 2009 9:48 AM
I did my part and called my senator. Hopefully, it will do some good. I'm a native Texan but it really doesn't hurt me to see everyone talking shit about us. We've been making bad decissions here for years. That said, there are fucktards in every state.
Posted by: Multicellular | May 21, 2009 10:07 AM
Just emailed my Texas state senator.
Keep your fingers crossed (not that it does any good but hey, why not flaunt your evolved phalangeal dexterity?)
Posted by: Dave | May 21, 2009 10:23 AM
Well, I wrote my Senator an email urging her to oppose his nomination, but I doubt it will do much good -- Mr. McLeroy is my SBOE rep and I live in a rather conservative district.
Posted by: Angel | May 21, 2009 10:25 AM
Finding 11 reasonable senators in Texas? I may as well try to find the cure for cancer by praying to the big fairy in the sky for all the good that would do. I will e-mail, but I know it is pretty much futile for me. This is East Texas where I am in, the place where they actually do things like cheer that mom that just ran away to keep her son from getting the needed chemotherapy (I kid you not. She is starting to become a local hero around here). McElroy and his ilk just make me regret I live in this wasteland. Were it not for the job. . . . Hey, PZ, I don't suppose your campus library needs a good librarian ( ;) ).
Best, and keep on blogging.
Posted by: Corvid | May 21, 2009 11:07 AM
First-time commenter here, though I've been lurking for a year or so. I am a Texan/Canadian currently living in Texas, and I am glad you've been covering this issue. I've been motivated to email my senator repeatedly... I will call as well, though as previous commenters mentioned, my senator (Dan Patrick) is not likely to sympathize. It's still worth a try! I can vouch for the small but very present rational, reasonable population here in the Lone Star State. Hopefully we can scream loud enough to keep our public schools from sliding irrevocably into the abyss of anti-science ignorance!
Posted by: michael | May 21, 2009 11:31 AM
I think the best idea is to get rid of Texas. You really think the next guy is going to be any better? He is still going to be from TEXAS!
Posted by: Lowell | May 21, 2009 11:41 AM
I've been keeping my eye on the bill pending in the Texas senate that would short-circuit all this crap by taking the power over textbook approval from the board and giving it to the secretary of education, with the advice of a committee of educators.
It was introduced March 13, and they haven't done a damn thing with it since: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=81R&Bill=SB2275
If you're a constituent, you might also want to recommend to your Texas senator that they get Senate Bill 2275 moving. It was introduced by a Republican, for crying out loud.
Posted by: Matt M | May 21, 2009 11:48 AM
Message sent to my TX State senator. I used the words "embarassing" and "embarassed" in my note, to describe how I felt about Mr. McElroy and his positions.
Posted by: Anonymous | May 21, 2009 1:22 PM
Sorry to the rest of you for doing this here, but I was called out and feel I need to set the record straight.
SocraticGadfly @ #56 said:
PinheadX @47, no condolence for you. If you're dumb enough to drink the Kool-Aid of someone whose 2006 support mainly came from people who think Perry is a RINO, you deserve Dan Patrick.
How is Kinky Friedman on the right? Let's look at his platform, shall we?
Legalize gambling, legalize cannabis, get rid of the TAKS test (anti-standardized testing), more pay for teachers, health care for kids, investment in renewable energy, pro-gay marriage... these are only a few of the things I've heard him support, or found on his website.
Also, he's considering running in 2010 for Governor as a Democrat.
What the hell are you talking about again? Care to illuminate me as to Kinky's right wing agenda? Sorry, man. FAIL.
Posted by: PinheadX | May 21, 2009 1:26 PM
damn... wasn't signed in for that above post...
oh, and he recently slammed Perry and Hutchinson for being YEC's
so there!
Posted by: CJ | May 21, 2009 1:36 PM
@SocraticGadly, I stole some of your note (because I'm currently trying to deal with rescheduled proms, banquets and recitals from the swine flu school meltdowns and I don't have time to write the damn thing myself) and sent it to my Senator, Chris Harris, who will probably stake out my house later tonight.
Posted by: PinheadX | May 21, 2009 2:20 PM
Here's what I wrote to Dan Patrick. I doubt it will help, but I can't bitch if I don't try to do something about it, can I?
Sen. Patrick,
I've written on this subject once, but feel I need to reiterate my stance.
I feel that in order for Texas to be taken seriously in the eyes of the rest of the country and the world, we need to support sound science, including Biology and Geology. We have one of the best medical centers in the world in Houston, and we have some of the top scientific-based industries located here as well, but we run the risk of these companies hiring biologists, geologists, technicians and researchers from other states and countries because we are being viewed as backward, uneducated fools due to comments made and policies supported by Don McLeroy in our education system.
You should reject his nomination based on the simple fact that whether you agree with his belief system or not, that the scientific community roundly rejects his beliefs about the age of the earth and evolution, and his politicizing of these beliefs will cause harm to the education of our children with regard to science. It should also be understood that without sound scientific education, the possible higher education and employment opportunities of current and future generations of Texas schoolchildren is at risk.
Please reject this disgrace on our fair state. Vote against Don McLeroy as SBOE chair.
Thank you,
Me
Posted by: SocraticGadfly | May 21, 2009 2:44 PM
Anonymous/Pinhead X @100: This is the same Kinky who refused to ever get serious about campaign issues. This is, even more, the same Kinky who called for restoring public prayer to public schools.
And finally, it's the same Kinky who's stupid enough to think there's an actual political constituency involved with voters who believe in both legalizing gay marriage AND restoring prayer to public schools.
From a Nov. 2006 blog post of mine --
http://socraticgadfly.blogspot.com/2006/09/will-texas-get-kinky-nov-7.html
I'll show more of how uninformed you are:
You might try actually learning something about Kinky Friedman before offering blind support to a man who is clearly on the conservative end of religious belief, and if writing on this blog, would be half as clueless, at least, as McLeroy.
You get less than zero condolences now.
Posted by: SocraticGadfly | May 21, 2009 2:47 PM
@CJ 102: Glad I could help. Did you tell Chris Harris you were a newspaper editor?
Posted by: SocraticGadfly | May 21, 2009 2:50 PM
@PinheadX 100... I post the detail of what I did above because of the scary idea that Kinky is looking at running again in 2010, combined with the fact that there's people like you who are deluded/self-deluded enough to believe he's actually a progressive candidate when he ain't necessarily so.
Posted by: Vern | May 21, 2009 2:52 PM
I thought the video would have been far more entertaining with a laugh track. The ridiculing laughter of school children who know better.
Posted by: Donny | May 21, 2009 3:00 PM
I don't see what you guys hate about Don McLeroy so much.
He just wants good science education and critical thinking. He just tries to present both sides with their strengths and weaknesses... unlike the "Darwin-only" lobby who wants students to uncritically accept and not question Darwin.
Posted by: Anonymous | May 21, 2009 3:04 PM
I'm 99% positive that the "if you don't love Jesus, go to hell" comment is a complete joke. Sorry if you didn't find it funny, but the guy is a comedian and satirist. And a Jew.
I disagree with him on the prayer in schools thing (obviously), but there's no way in hell it'll happen anyway, and he knows it. So what if he panders to the "country folk" on that point?
The rest of his policies are completely in line with a progressive agenda. I still fail to see your point.
Posted by: SocraticGadfly | May 21, 2009 3:14 PM
@Anonymous (Pinhead?) 109... Kinky didn't play the Kilgore comment like a joke, and in papers at that time, it wasn't reported that way.
Of course, since his WHOLE campaign was a joke, by default, I guess that comment was, too.
If he does run again, you know that Dean Barkley et al had wayyy more than enough 3 years ago, and his campaign management in 2010 will be a joke indeed.
That said, you can't deny most of his support came from people who thought Perry was a RINO. The type who thought TTC (which I don't support, either) was a plot by Cintra to take over the state of Texas, etc.
If you want to run with that crowd, no condolence, or sympathy, from me there either. Nor any sympathy for not being insightful enough to not see my point, but the point made by who Kinky's biggest supporters were. I was just the messenger/analyst, along with others in the media.
Posted by: norm! | May 21, 2009 5:31 PM
Donny @108
You and McLeroy may believe that this idea that rethinking "Darwinism" is healthy, but it's merely indication that creationist propaganda has penetrated the mainstream, particularly amongst those who find it distasteful that scientific understanding conflicts with literal Genesis. Science only appears to be "Darwin-only" because mountains of evidence corroborate natural selection, and no other hypothesis has withstood scientific scrutiny. Pundit, lay person, and Dentist scrutiny, yes. Scientific scrutiny, not in the least.
The person who submits a scientific paper that overturns evolution will be hailed as a hero of science. That person has her work cut out for her. Until that day arrives, we must teach our children evolution, and we are prohibited from fussing over the impact that teaching it has on culture.
This is a thought experiment that we routinely suggest: think of a scientific principle that you embrace (e.g. the moon reflects sunlight -- I hope your Genesis interpretation isn't to literal to preclude that) and imagine someone asserting that it deserves re-evaluation. Would you be up in arms? What if the opposition has political power and has no intention of providing any actual science to back up its claim? Have you noticed that only those theories that groups find *distasteful* are treated this way? Sorry, science doesn't give a damn what pleases the public.
What do we "hate about McLeroy so much"? He has used is power to twist science in a direction he simply finds palatable.
Posted by: norm! | May 21, 2009 5:37 PM
Senator Steve Ogden appears to be undecided. The fact that his senate district overlaps with McLeroy's SBOE district appears to be a factor in his upcoming vote. The aid I spoke with suggested twice that Ogden will take into consideration that McLeroy's constituents have re-elected him to the board multiple times. I reinforced that it is the Senator's job to evaluate his qualifications as chair, not as board member.
Posted by: Dave | May 21, 2009 5:55 PM
I thought about calling my senator, but I'm pretty sure he'd have me arrested for blasphemy. His official bio:
"A native of Baltimore, Dan (Patrick) has been a Texan since joining Houston CBS affiliate KHOU TV in 1979. In 1988 he launched talk radio KSEV and soon after discovered a little known national host, Rush Limbaugh. His group added KPRC radio in 1992 and then sold the stations joining San Antonio-based Clear Channel Communications.
Dan has made many appearances as a conservative commentator on MSNBC, The O’Reilly Factor and Hannity and Colmes as well as serving as guest host for the Laura Ingraham and Michael Reagan nationally syndicated radio shows. In 2002 Dan wrote a Christian bestseller, The Second Most Important Book You Will Ever Read. He is currently producing a Christian movie, Deep in the Heart, based on a true Texas story."
Apparently, he's a butt-buddy of our local congresscritter, who just happens to have the owner of Clear Channel for a father-in-law.
I weep.
Posted by: Tony G | May 21, 2009 8:19 PM
Here was my shot at this.
---------------------------------------
As a citizen of the State of Texas, I am quite
concerned about the possible confirmation of Don
McLeroy as the Chair of the State Board of
Education. He has repeatedly shown his lack of
understanding of the nature of the scientific
method, and consistently attempts to undermine
the science education of our children. He has
made statements showing contempt for experts in
their fields, preferring a layperson's simple
explanation.
A lot of these arguments are presented in the
guise of "fairness" or "teaching both sides",
but we don't expect anything of the sort in
other subjects. We require teachers in other
subjects to teach what is the consensus of the
experts. For example, in History class we don't
teach that JFK was assassinated by Lee Harvey
Oswald, then turn around and say, "but some
people believe it was the CIA. Go ahead and
decide for yourself. Either answer is
acceptable on the final exam."
Dallas is a major technical and scientific hub
of the United States, and if Texas can't provide
a premier science education to its children we
will lose that honor along with the business and
revenue that accompanies it.
As a voting constituent, I hope you heed my
request. Deny Don McLeroy's bid for the Chair
of the State Board of Education.
Thank you very much for your time.
[Name]
Registered Voter, District 8
Posted by: gr8googlymoogly | May 21, 2009 8:28 PM
I'd call Don a douchebag, but that would be an insult to douchebags.
Posted by: Kayla | May 21, 2009 11:39 PM
I actually laughed out loud, sitting here alone at home watching this video. Can someone please make a "Somebody's gotta stand up to the experts" -Dan McLeroy R-College Station t-shirt? I would wear that everywhere.
Posted by: logoseph | May 21, 2009 11:48 PM
Just sent mine in. Incidentally, I turned 18 a month ago; I now have used my potential vote as a weapon in political discourse for the first time. It feels delicious.
Posted by: Michael | May 22, 2009 3:27 AM
It's amusing to watch a controversial vote of a confirmation that will last perhaps a little over a year. I believe Don McLeroy makes a pretty good case with the Cambrian Explosion using defenders of evolution. It's sure a better presentation than the hype surrounding the so-called direct link known as Ida. The best discovery supposedly in 47 million years, I think the world would be laughing more at that one...lol
Posted by: nkb | May 22, 2009 8:18 AM
Michael,
If you believe McLeroy makes a pretty good case with the Cambrian Explosion, then you are as uneducated and pig-ignorant in science as him.
Do you even understand what the Cambrian Explosion means?
Posted by: robin m
|
May 22, 2009 9:14 AM
Email sent to Senator West (district 23). He's a democrat so I wonder where he sits on this issue.
Posted by: Anonymous | May 22, 2009 11:41 AM
There's a reason why I sacrifice vacations, et. al. to send my kid to private school here in Texas. McLeroy is one of them. You should hear the crap my sister's teenager's learn regarding sex ed.
My state senator sits on the nominating committee and voted to allow McLeroy's nomination to go forward.
I called her office and the explanation is she voted to support him because she supports the nominees that the Governor puts forward. If a person is qualified to serve on the Board, they should not be discriminated against because of their religion.
Yep. My senator voted to allow his nomination to stand because to vote against him would be to discriminate against his religion.
Ugh.
I have voted for my senator in the past, but will not support her ever again.
Posted by: Matthew | May 22, 2009 1:41 PM
Oh my.. Is he actually saying "lets fight the brilliant smart people and tell them they are wrong?"
He wants to somehow convince the "EXPERTS" they are wrong... wow.. I am sooooo happy I moved away from Texas... What a joke!
Posted by: Matthew | May 22, 2009 1:44 PM
Oh my.. Is he actually saying "lets fight the brilliant smart people and tell them they are wrong?"
He wants to somehow convince the "EXPERTS" they are wrong... wow.. I am sooooo happy I moved away from Texas... What a joke!
Posted by: astrounit | May 22, 2009 4:32 PM
"The man who declared, "Somebody's gotta stand up to experts"."
We see here the heretofore hidden maggot which has now wriggled to make its presence known.
Texans, you've got to nip this pest in the bud before its too late.
Just DO it.
What will it hurt? A pathetic sensitivity on the part of SOME NON-EXPERTS for lacking expertise?
Did you ever need another reason which the freedom of speech (or opinion) or even rational scientific considerations didn't offer?
If THAT isn't now a good reason to get rid of that one single guy, then you MUST INSTEAD (just to be consistent) consider removing every single OTHER "expert" your state employs...including those over at the Manned Spaceflight Center in Houston. (On the assumption that none of them know how to handle complex technical matters as well as non-experts).
In that case? Go ahead. Throw all those expert bums out. Replace every single one of them with non-experts.
And transform your once great and big state into a gigantic insane asylum that can't even do what, say, North Korea can "do".
Posted by: Venise Alstergren | May 23, 2009 3:48 AM
It's your own fault Texas, and the rest of America. You keep giving this certifiably insane christian fundamentalist theology air and it'll continue to breathe.