Democracy, Intelligent Design, and Evolution

"What is the proper balance between religious expression and science education in a liberal democracy? To be ‘free,’ citizens must express their deepest held convictions but also think critically and ascertain facts. Susan P. Liebell, in an unusually probing and utterly fearless fashion, explores this question, thoroughly reshaping our understanding of the relationship of religion and politics in the United States. Democracy, Intelligent Design, and Evolution prioritizes science over religion--but it does so in ways that will surprise ‘secularists,’ and likely will earn the grudging respect of politically active religionists. A must-read for anyone interested in civic education in our supposedly ‘post-secular age.’"

—John P. McCormick, University of Chicago

"Susan Liebell has written a wonderful and extraordinarily timely book. Through an uncommonly rich mix of theory, law, and political analysis, she offers a thoughtful and penetrating analysis of the complex role that science plays in democratic politics and civic life. During a time in which science education is a subject of great political debate, we should pay close attention to Liebell's arguments. As a citizen you will benefit from reading this book."

—Jack Knight, Duke University