82 TEACHING SCIENCE IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS

in the Old Testament of The Bible. These questions are likely
to be in earnest, and they deserve carefully considered answers.
 Discussions between theologians and scientists have been con-
tinuous throughout the centuries. Among the most vigorously
contended differences of opinion were the efforts to prove
whether the earth or the sun were the center of our planetary
system, and whether the earth is a plane or a sphere. Each of
these, and many other controversies, were finally resolved by
adjusting the beliefs of both theologians and scientists to facts
as they were discovered. This was made easier because of a sin-
cere desire to know the truth on the part of most members of
each group. After all, many theologians are interested in the
marvels shown by science, and many scientists possess strong
religious faith. Only the stubborn minds of either group are
closed.
 The most recent controversy has concerned the evolution of
 plants and animals upon earth, as contrasted with an instan-
 taneous creation. Countless facts bearing upon this matter are
 known, and the science of biology presents-even in high school
 -the most fundamental of them, in the lessons on comparative
 anatomy, plant and animal breeding, the genes of heredity, and
 many others.
 If the science teacher discovers that his questioner is bent on
 starting a bitter argument, he must realize that the emotional
 feelings involved are stronger than the intellectual feelings.
 These feelings are based on inadequate information on both the
 teachings of Genesis and the science texts. Under such circum-
 stances it is probably better to give the "soft answer," and avoid
 the "vain disputation." It is doubtful whether information or
 calm discussion would have any good effect.
 To the sincere inquirer the teacher should offer a brief lesson
 as introduction, with further study suggested. The lesson should
 be adjusted to the inquirer's comprehension, of course, with
 words and ideas no more complex than the elementary, inter-
 mediate, or high school-adult level.
 What is the issue between certain interpretations of Genesis
 and the science texts? It chiefly concerns creation of the world,