The Counter-Creationism Handbook

(Hardback)

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A handy resource providing up-to-date scientific evidence to counter the most common claims made by creationists Those opposed to the teaching of evolution often make well-rehearsed claims about the science that sound, to the layperson, powerful and convincing. And many people who support the teaching of evolution - students, teachers, parents, administrators - do not have the background to respond. They know that scientists have pretty thoroughly dismantled these arguments, but they don't have a handy way of responding to these attacks. The Counter-Creationism Handbook is a one-stop resource for addressing over 400 of the most prevalent claims made by creationists. Each claim is followed by a succinct and scientifically valid rebuttal, and the book includes print and on-line resources for further reading and information. This useful resource covers claims made about the disciplines of philosophy, biology, palaeontology, geology, astronomy, physics and mathematics, history, linguistics, and folklore. It addresses the claims of Biblical creationism, intelligent design creationism, and even some creationism based on other religions. An introduction covers how to address creationists in different venues, how to deal with novel claims, and why accurate science is important. It is organised thematically, with extensive cross-referencing, so that someone presented with an unfamiliar claim can quickly find the argument, understand its flaws, provide a rebuttal, and see where to go for more information.. Covers a perennially controversial topic. Provides scientific facts for students, teachers, and parents to challenge creationist claims. Refers the reader to the most up-to-date print and online resources for obtaining further information

Reviews

[T]akes several hundred claims of creationists and proponents of intelligent design and answers them succinctly and scientifically, providing citations for both the claims and the arguments against them.A well-organized standard reference that should prove useful in the classroom as well as in public debate. * College & Research Libraries News *
The Counter-Creationism Handbook is aimed at those who need help in countering creationist claims in the sciences, philosophy, and the Bible.[d]oes the book have value for the ASA reader Yes. First, it offers a broad picture of the arguments that one may encounter. Second, it deals effectively with scientific issues. Third, it provides useful debating strategies for various settings. * Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith *
As any experienced debater can tell you, one essential ingredient to success in public debate is to know your opponents arguments. That idea is thoroughly reflected in this guide to the debate on creationism. School teachers, librarians and public officials are often caught unprepared by requests of creationists to remove books or modify curricula. This guide to many of the most common arguments of creationists will allow public officials the means of appreciating creationist concerns and perhaps countering their requests.Each entry summarizes the creationist argument and provides a rebuttal based on scientific evidence. Documenting both sides of these arguments is important for following up on particular issues; so Isaaks bibliographies provide both creationist and scientific sources. This consistency in coverage means the guide can serve adherents to either side in this debate. This unique guide should be of value in both public and academic library collections. * Lawrence Looks at Books *
The intended audience for this book includes science teachers, those caught in arguments with creationists, and even creationists who want to identify weaknesses in their propositions.Every school where evolution is taught needs this book, and public library reference collections would do well to include it for journalists and researchers. * VOYA *

Author Bio

MARK ISAAK has written numerous articles on the creation/evolution debate. He is the editor of the "Index of Creationist Claims" on the acclaimed website www talkorigins.org.