Creation Science Law Ruled Unconstitutional (1982)
Louisiana: The State We're In
Details
Collection:LPB
Genre: News, Public Affairs
Place Covered: Louisiana
Copyright Holder: Louisiana Educational Television Authority
Date Issued: 1982-12-03
Duration: 00:07:18
Subjects: Education | CREATIONISM | Religion | Science | Evolution | Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education | Louisiana. Legislature
Contributors:
- George, Beth Host
- Geltner, Naomi Reporter
- Keith, Bill Speaker
- Kegel, Martha Interviewee
- Clark, Steve Interviewee
- Magee, Ellis Speaker
- Guste, William Interviewee
- Diguilio, John Interviewee
- Keith, Bill Interviewee
Description
This segment from the December 3, 1982, episode of “Louisiana: The State We’re In” features a report on the defeat of the 1981 law requiring Louisiana public schools to teach creation science in equal time with the theory of evolution. Judge Adrian Duplantier ruled that the law was unconstitutional because the Legislature does not have the authority to dictate school policy, including the teaching of particular subjects, to the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE). This report touches on the history of the legal cases in Louisiana, the defeat of a similar law in Arkansas, the likelihood of an appeal and the growing grassroots support for the teaching of creationism. Host: Beth George