(posted on my blog: davenichols.net

Kenneth Miller, biologist, professor, and Christian has emerged as a sane voice in support of evolution and against creationism. While there are many books out there which offer evidence and arguments on behalf of evolution, few are written with by a vocal person of faith.

Miller begins the book discussing the oddity of scientists being involved in courtroom battles over the teach of evolution and creationism. The author has been called several times to testify on behalf of evolution's role in science, including the famous case in Dover, PA: Kitzmiller v. Dover. Miller offers a look at the history of the repackaged creationism known as "Intelligent Design" and opens the reader to the clear evidence that ID has nothing new to offer that creationism didn't already possess.

The middle parts of the book delve deeper into the biological arguments made on behalf of evolution, arguments against design, and includes looks at the human genome and a very interesting discussion of vitamin C deficiency in humans and our nearest relatives. The fused chromosome in the human genome is also considered, and the infamous Hox genes are introduced into the discussion as well.

In the chapter "The World That Knew We Were Coming", Miller avoids the vast majority of anthropic arguments in stating that he sees no problem accepting both faith and evolution. He contends that the two are not at odds and that he can maintain these otherwise dueling views of reality without the need to "reconcile". This chapter felt a bit odd given the rest of the book's refusal to deal with personal faith, but Miller handles the subject lightly and with a strong insistence that evolution is his main concern.

Finally, Miller tackles the "Closing the American Scientific Mind" and argues strongly that the strategies of closed-minded religious fanatics have adversely affected scientific learning in the US. He includes strong arguments against the creationism / ID "Wedge" strategy which sought to force a diversion in the teaching of science by injecting religious nonsense into scientific discussions, a strategy which has been mildly effective.

A solid book on the current events in the ID movement and a few strong choice arguments for evolution are in store for the reader of this somewhat short book. Miller is a good writer and brings a long history of experience to the reader in this unique narrative of science, policy, and misinformation. Four stars. ( )

Miller's arguments are that intelligent design can exist on a macro level, but not on a micro level. He proposes that not only is intelligent design off on a scientific level, but has dire political consequences as well. It was a good book and worth the read even though I did not find his arguments winning me over. ( )

A very interesting book that discusses both the political aspects of the ID movement as well as addressing the science behind evolution and the scientific failings of Intelligent Design. ( )

This defense of science and repudiation of Intelligent Design, and more significantly, its goal to restructure science is written by a man who is both a Microbiologist and a practicing Christian. Miller argues that science, with its focus on the natural, is an important part of the intellectual heritage of the West in general, and of the United States in particular. He quotes noted Conservatives such as George Will in its defense. He also argues that science and religion are not necessarily in conflict He examines the national qualities of Americans that have both led them to be leaders in science, and to risk destroying it in the name of evenhandedness.

Miller admires Bloom's book, The Closing of the American Mind. He interprets its message as being the danger of trying to be so fair and so open to all ideas as to be incapable of making judgments. He is afraid that this is happening with science. Instead of competing on a scientific basis, which I'm sure that Miller would allow, Intelligent Design is attempting to change the rules of science, and far too many people fail to see the danger. The book is a call to defend the boundries of science before the United States loses its edge.

Especially at the beginning, Miller also present scientific evidence against the claims of Intelligent Design, especially as they relate to Behe, Dembski, and arguments about complexity. These are quite interesting, more interesting to me personally than the rest, but not really the main purpose of the book.

Particularly recommended for those who are undecided or don't understand what the fuss is about. ( )