From Scopes to Edwards: The Sixty-Year Evolution of Biblical Creationism in the Public School Classroom

Few issues have generated as much controversy as the scope of the religion clauses of the first amendment to the United States Constitution within the setting of the public schools. Indeed, as Justice Brennan once stated, the courts have "encountered few issues more intricate or more demanding than that of the relationship between religion and the public schools." This controversy is not surprising in light of the important role played by the public schools in shaping the nation's thoughts, beliefs and institutions. It is a controversy without end; for as long as the public schools maintain their primary role in educating future generations and American society moves farther away from the traditional religious convictions of its forefathers, the controversy will continue.