Why is intelligent design theory inappropriate for the science classroom?
As the PBS.org website notes in its discussion of evolution, “‘Intelligent design theory’ is built on the belief that evolution does not sufficiently explain the complexity that exists in life on Earth and that science should recognize the existence of an ‘intelligent designer.’ Proponents assert that their criticism of evolution is scientific, not religious. But the various aspects of intelligent design theory have not yet been subjected to the normal process of scientific experimentation and debate, nor have they been accepted by the scientific community. No research supporting the claims of intelligent design has ever been published in any recognized, professional, peer-reviewed scientific journal. Finally, the question of whether there is an intelligent designer is untestable using the methods of science, and therefore is not a scientific claim.”5 Since the claims of intelligent design are not adequately tested as science, they are inappropriate for the science classroom.
