Regarding creationism
I think the word “theory” should be reexamined in light of Michele Lincoln’s letter to the editor of March 16 in the Tribune-Herald (“Origin of life”). She supports the teaching of both evolution and creationism in school, because she sees them as equally valid.
Because evolution is referred to as a “theory,” she mistakes that for meaning there is no evidence to support it as factual, requiring purely faith to accept it, as with creationism.
The American Museum of Natural History says it well: In everyday use, the word “theory” often means an untested hunch, or a guess without supporting evidence.
But for scientists, a theory has nearly the opposite meaning. A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world that can incorporate laws, hypotheses and facts.
On the other hand, creationism has no fact whatsoever to back it up. School is intended to teach well-accepted, fact-based knowledge, not to promote religion.
The discussion of religion might be appropriate in school to examine its part in history, but the subject should properly encompass all religions, not just the Christian religion.
Timothy H. Cooper
Hilo
Roads are a mess
Dear motorists, if you are driving behind a vehicle that is headed in the same direction as you, and the vehicle appears to be weaving from left to right, it may not be that the driver is driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or is feeling ill.
The driver ahead of you, just like myself, may be trying to avoid driving over the numerous potholes, roadway cracks, asphalt humps, and sunken metal utility covers.
So, may I suggest that you cut out my letter, keep it within your vehicle, and if you are stopped by the police for “possible DUI” or “careless or heedless operation of a vehicle,” please show the officer my letter, and perhaps the officer will concur that the roadway is indeed all “bussup.”
But if you are actually driving impaired upon a newly paved roadway, free of obstacles, and the police pull you over, showing my letter to the officer may not get you off the hook. Don’t drive drunk!
Rick LaMontagne
Hilo