Over the weekend I went with my wife and some friends to see the movie “Expelled.” In this documentary, Ben Stein explores stories of some science professors who have been fired from universities around the country. These professors have suggested, through lectures or publications, that there may be some validity to the notion of Intelligent Design.
(By the way, Ben Stein is the guy who played the boring teacher in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” with Matthew Broderick.)
The concept of Intelligent Design is that scientific evidence in the material world points to design, not a happy convergence of random occurrences. A reasonable person, they say, could not observe the order of the universe and declare it to be a mere accident.
This is a direct challenge to the scientific community's prevailing acceptance of Darwinian evolution. According to Darwin, everything is an accident, governed by the laws of chance and natural selection. This universe evolved without any guidance from any being or intelligence.
Stein asserts that the professors who have given credence to ID have been intentionally excluded from the scientific community. They are fired, denied tenure and labeled as rogues. They can’t find work in their fields because other scientists refuse to work with them. Scientists don’t want to associate with those who question the party line of Darwinism.
In the movie, Stein drills down to find the real reason that scientists cling to Darwinian evolution. He interviews many scientists, both evolutionists and those who question the theory. He explores the implications of the Darwinian philosophy, and how it has played into world politics.
Best of all, this is a FUN movie. Stein doesn’t take himself too seriously. The movie includes numerous clips from old movies and newsreels. It actually has a great soundtrack, and I hope it comes out on CD.
Prepare yourself to laugh and to think, and go see “Expelled.” It will open your eyes!
