As is increasingly common at Stanford, no evidence whatsoever is cited for this proposition. No study has been conducted to demonstrate that mere exposure to the idea of creationism deadens a brain. No facts, figures, data or empirical observations of any kind. Just sheer speculation by another would-be scientist from my alma mater.
On the Contrary
To make matters worse, the historical record argues extremely persuasively against Mr. Kennedy’s dream-child. Consider the most curious, imaginative and stunningly brilliant minds of all times, and you will find that list to be populated primarily with individuals who had not only been exposed to creationism but actually believed it. As a very short version of that list, take examples such as:
- Newton — father of calculus, forerunner of modern physics, and towering intellect
- Michelangelo — probably the greatest fine artist in European — if not world — history, one whose curiosity drove him to dissect corpses when such a practice was frowned upon
- Jefferson — America’s foremost thinker and probably the Enlightenment’s greatest mind
- Edison — the most prolific and influential inventor of all time
They were all creationists. And they are far from alone.
Has Anyone Seen Evidence?
If Mr. Kennedy wishes to demonstrate that creationism deadens brains, he will need some serious evidence to counter-balance the indisputable weight of history’s greatest minds. Unfortunately, no such evidence, good or bad,—indeed, no evidence at all—is provided. Just another Stanford hoax. Out here in the real world, we prefer the scientific method to the Stanford hubris factory. Experiments are conducted according to established practices of control group, experimental group, hypothesis, double-blind, and company. Does Mr. Kennedy recall those days, or has he outgrown such trivia?
Is There an Answer?
Further questions arise, such as: Why is Mr. Kennedy even commenting on this subject? When did his background as a biologist endow him with special insights into how the human mind learns? Are we to believe that—as a biological matter—creationism disables the human brain? Because if not, Mr. Kennedy is no more "expert" than anyone else on the subject.
Or is Mr. Kennedy simply "makin’ sh*t up", as we Stanford kids used to say?
Unless there are some very interesting studies coming forth, he is. Let’s call his new creation, "Science á la Stanford: a mythological system for the 21st century."
