Florida lawmaker proudly rejects scientific expertise

As Florida gears up to revise state science standards, they seem insistent on topping the anti-science nonsense which earned Kansas such mockery. The St. Petersburg Times education blog reports:

Another key lawmaker says it's likely the Legislature will weigh in on the evolution controversy. And in this case, the lawmaker, Rep. Joe Pickens, R-Palatka, says he has concerns about the proposed state standards himself.

"If it becomes a matter for legislative discussion, then I would have opinions that if it's going to be presented, it's presented … in a manner that is not potentially exclusive of any other theory," including creationism, said Pickens, the powerful chair of the House Schools and Learning Council.

Reporter Ron Matus adds:

Among scientists, there is virtually no debate about the fundamental soundness of Darwin's theory. "But far and away," Pickens said, "most of the people who are our constituents, and who vote for us, are not scientists."

So, you know, screw the experts, we'll decide what is and isn't science the same way we pick the next American Idol.

Next, Florida makes a bid for those space tourism dollars by selectively repealing gravity.

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CHAIR of the house schools and Learning council?!?!

Pickens said "most of the people who are our constituents, and who vote for us, are not scientists."

No. And the way you're going, your constituency never will include many scientists.

Next, Florida makes a bid for those space tourism dollars by selectively repealing gravity.

LOL! Gravity may not give up without a fight! LOL! As a Christian who believes in both creationism and evolution I sure wish they could just come up with the money to teach both! I admire Darwin's work very much and all the dedicated scientists who have built on it since then!
Dave Briggs :~)