In the past the text book industry was often guided by larger states like Florida, Texas, and California. It was expensive for publishers to cater to regional preferences and because those states have such large populations, text book publishers would base their content on their preferences. However with many districts opting to use digital texts it has become more cost effective for publishers to provide regional options.
This past week the textbook battle was once again raging in Texas as the school board attempts to choose new Science texts. This battle is centered around whether or not the books should teach evolution, creationism, creative design, or present all three theories. Creationists claim that evolution has not been proven, and because of this it should only be presented as one theory among several.
At the latest state review panel, the skeptics of the evolutionary theory of humanity included a biologist and a chemical engineer. The supporters of evolution however number in the vast majority of the mainstream scientific community.
As the battle rages in Texas, what do you think? Should text books offer all the different theories of man's origins?
Thoughts?
A comedic discussion of "Creationism" by Lewis Black
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PDZTveY4uQ
Creationism debate Hugh Ross vs. Kent Hovind
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vavu8KduvhA