EVOLUTION II: THE WRATH OF IRA

Today's Newsday had a brilliant and succint version of my spiel in its "Letters to the Editor" section. Here it is:

Where to teach about God

Regarding "A matter of 'intelligent design' " [News, Jan. 14]: The main problem with the Theory of Intelligent Design is that it is based on the theory that God exists. Belief that God exists (held by most people in the world) is not proof that God exists.

One can debate the findings and interpretations of Charles Darwin in a science course, which is appropriate. A debate over the existence of God is not appropriate in science courses. A debate about the attributes of "the God we believe in" belongs in our churches, synagogues, mosques, etc.

This is not a question of government atheism or the separation of church and state. It is dealing with facts, not beliefs.

Ira Perlman
Massapequa

That is precisely what I was trying to say last week, but Ira said it much better. Thanks, Ira!