Review: EXPELLED, No Intelligence Allowed

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o you know the difference between "intelligent design" [ID] and "creationism?" What about evolution verses intelligent design: Why does there exist so much controversy over the teaching of both in public schools? Is the "theory of evolution," so sound as to be absolutely unquestionable? How about those who rigorously argue that ID should also be taught along side evolution in public and private schools: Do those people belong to the "world is flat" club?

I decided to take a closer look. The Expelled DVD, hosted by Ben Stein, was recommended to us by scientist friends who would prefer to remain anonymous for fear of professional retribution. That reason alone was enough incentive to view the film.

Expelled evokes a sense of deep concern, not because ID is a threat to scientific credulity, but that the lack of truly rigorous argument from the hard-core evolutionists is so very - well, embarrassing. In fact, the scientists themselves are shown to be significantly less than open-minded, and the price of challenging the status quo has cost quite a few their jobs and professional credibility.

The perspectives conveyed by the advocates of intelligent design are actually quite simple and logical: Recent evidence suggests that the standing theory of evolution and Darwinism [natural selection combined with accidental emergence] can no longer stand as the sole and exclusive explanation for the origins of life. They contend that in light of recent scientific discoveries in the last half-century, (for instance the exquisite nano-technology discovered and digital code stored inside the cells of all life), demonstrate intelligent cause, not undirected, random natural processes.

The Darwinists who vehemently argue for the theory of evolution state, "Intelligent Design is pure political dogma, and not worth our time to address." There is no rational logic presented, only opinionated bullying by some of the most esteemed academic minds. For instance, Dawkins, a high-profile Darwinist, insists that complex biological systems only "give the appearance of being intelligent." But that statement only begs the question, "Wouldn't the ability for complex micro systems to "appear intelligent" suggest actual intelligence?

On one hand, it would be easy to dismiss a DVD presentation that covers these controversial and contentious arguments when presented by a sardonic humorist who's recent claim to fame is infomercials and ignoring the signs of financial crisis as a commentator on Fox News. Ben Stein's credibility has certainly taken a few hits in recent years. However, the arguments presented by the intelligent designers themselves are worthy enough for a couple of hours of edutainment.

If you are interested in understanding more about the emotional debates behind evolution verses intelligent design, Expelled No Intelligence Allowed is enjoyable as well as informative.

Recommended.
Danielle Graham is the Editor-in-Chief of SuperConsciousness Magazine where she also publishes the blog Science and Spirituality, exploring the interconnectedness of these two fields of interest.

Website: http://www.SuperConsciousness.com

Blog: http://www.SuperConsciousness.com/Blog

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