This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2005, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Redefining creationism as “intelligent” or “divine” design is a manipulation of words intended to deceive and distract the public from the ages-old issue. No matter what you call it, it is still creationism, it is still religious doctrine and it is still a violation of separation of church and state if taught in the school system.
“The Eagle Forum . . . argues a community has a right to teach its values to its children” (Tribune, June 3). I couldn't agree more, but religious values should be taught at home, at church or perhaps at an Eagle Forum meeting.
Sen. Chris Buttars, R-West Jordan, said, “The only people who will be upset about this are atheists.” He must be living in a vacuum to make such a small-minded and offensive statement. I am not an atheist and I am upset enough by his proposed legislation to write this letter to the editor, and one to my district senator.
Let's hope the rest of Utah's lawmakers are designed intelligently enough to spot the lack of intelligence in Sen. Buttars' arguments.
Linda Taylor
Bicknell
