Darwin on Trial

by InterVarsity Press

ScienceGrades 10–12

About This Curriculum

<cite index="4-1">Phillip E. Johnson explores the theory of evolution, and argues that it is based on faith in philosophical naturalism, rather than fact, and that there is no body of empirical data supporting the theory.</cite>

What makes it unique: <cite index="21-2,21-5">Johnson wrote the book with the thesis that evolution could be "tried" like a defendant in court. Darwin on Trial became a central text of the intelligent design movement, and Johnson has been described as the "father of ID"."</cite>

Darwin on Trial: Philosophical Critique of Evolution Theory

Darwin on Trial is a book by Phillip E. Johnson that presents a philosophical and legal critique of Darwinian evolution theory, arguing it is based on naturalistic assumptions rather than empirical evidence. This work is used as supplemental reading in high school science curricula focused on critical analysis of evolutionary theory.

Best for

High school students in private or homeschool settings where critical analysis of evolution from a theistic perspective is desired, particularly those interested in philosophy and logic

Evaluation Criteria

2 concerns · 2 neutral · 3 insufficient evidence

Knowledge RichConcern

The curriculum presents philosophical arguments about evolution but lacks systematic science content knowledge building.

Reviews indicate Johnson 'studiously avoids arguments from the Bible' and focuses on legal-minded analysis rather than comprehensive scientific content instruction

Ngss AlignmentConcern

The curriculum does not align with NGSS standards and contradicts mainstream scientific consensus.

NCSE review notes it is 'an antievolution book' that 'provides fuel for those who want to get evolution out of school classrooms,' opposing standard science education goals

Direct InstructionNeutral

The curriculum provides direct argumentation but lacks explicit instruction of core science concepts.

Cathy Duffy notes it 'addresses both scientific and philosophic issues at an understandable level' but reviewers emphasize critique over content instruction

Scientific VocabularyNeutral

Limited scientific vocabulary instruction as the focus is primarily on philosophical critique rather than scientific terminology.

Reviews mention discussion of molecular evidence and fossil records but emphasize the work's philosophical rather than scientific educational approach

Teacher TrainingInsufficient Evidence

No specific teacher training materials or professional development components are mentioned.

Reviews focus on the book content itself without referencing teacher guides, training materials, or pedagogical support resources

Retrieval PracticeInsufficient Evidence

No evidence of systematic retrieval practice or review mechanisms in the curriculum.

Reviews describe this as a book for reading rather than a structured curriculum with practice exercises or review components

Hands On IntegrationInsufficient Evidence

No evidence of laboratory work or hands-on activities is present in this text-based curriculum.

All reviews describe this as a book for reading and discussion, with no mention of practical scientific investigation or lab components

Review Sources

Key Facts
GradesGrades 10–12
SubjectScience
PedagogyNot specified
Faith-BasedNo
FormatPhysical
Pricing$16.34 at Amazon.com | $1.63 Used at Amazon.com Marketplace | $15.43 at Christianbook.com

Looking for something different?

If none of these options feel right, explore a non-traditional approach. Pallas Center offers a unique curriculum, or design your own with Palladay.

Data sources: cathyduffy