"A marvelous and insightful review of the creationism/evolution controversy by an individual who has contributed
immeasurably to the public understanding of science."
--Lee Hood, author of The Code of Codes: Scientific and Social Issues in the Human Genome Project
"I know of no book that explains the evolution/creation controversy in such a comprehensive manner, and
yet in a style that will be understood by high school students. It demarcates those areas of thought that belong
to faith-supported religion on the one hand, and reason-supported science on the other without denigrating either."
--Richard E. Dickerson, UCLA
"There are few scientists as knowledgeable and clear about how science works, and as thoughtful about the
creation and evolution controversy as John A. Moore. A product of Moore's wisdom and his over 60 years experience
as a brilliant and productive scholar, From Genesis to Genetics will bring understanding to both citizens and scientists
who are grappling with the contentious issues of science and religion, evolution and creationism."
--Eugenie C. Scott, Executive Director, National Center for Science Education
Submitted By Publisher, April, 2004
Summary
The clash between evolution and creationism is one of the most hotly contested topics in education today. This
book, written by one of America's most distinguished science educators, provides essential background information
on this difficult and important controversy. Giving a sweeping and balanced historical look at both schools of
thought, John A. Moore shows that faith can exist alongside science, that both are essential to human happiness
and fulfillment, but that we must support the teaching of science and the scientific method in our nation's schools.
This highly informative book will be an invaluable aid for parents, teachers, and lawmakers, as well as for anyone
who wants a better understanding of this debate. From Genesis to Genetics shows us why we must free both science
and religion to do the good work for which each is uniquely qualified.
Using accessible language, Moore describes in depth these two schools of thought. He begins with an analysis of
the Genesis story, examines other ancient creation myths, and provides a nuanced discussion of the history of biblical
interpretation. After looking at the tenets and historical context of creationism, he presents the history of evolutionary
thought, explaining how it was developed, what it means, and why it is such a powerful theory. Moore goes on to
discuss the relationship of nineteenth-century religion to Darwinism, examine the historic Scopes trial, and take
us up to the current controversy over what to teach in schools. Most important, this book also explores options
for avoiding confrontations over this issue in the future.
Thoughtfully and powerfully advocating that the teaching of science be kept separate from the teaching of religion,
Moore asks us to recognize that a vigorous and effective scientific community is essential to our nation's health,
to our leadership role in the world, and to the preservation of a healthy environment.