Why not teach other faith versions?

Editor,

There are proposed bills in the Montana Legislature supporting or opposing the teaching of creationism in the public schools.

I support teaching Christian creationism in the public schools. And also teaching many other versions (including the Earth riding on a turtle's back), different Native American beliefs, Hinduism, Humanism, Paganism, Islam, Buddhism, Vodun (Voodoo) and about 907 other worldwide beliefs.

Include atheism, which is not a religious but is worth mentioning. Atheism is merely the absence of belief in the supernatural; there is no "atheism religion."

Open and critical analysis of religious thought is highly appropriate in today's world. Instant communication connects us with the differing human cultures all over earth — misunderstandings and conflicts abound. Current political situations demand better understanding — nationally (issues of church and state), internationally (cultural wars, AIDS, family planning) and locally (school curriculum).

With exposure to many religions, themes might emerge which could help students better understand the common desires and struggles of all humans. This is a good thing. An appreciation of diverse beliefs and reasoning could lead toward tolerance of some ideas and sincere questioning of others, also worthy goals.

Of course, each belief system should be adequately taught giving:

1. Its historical context (beliefs/religions often evolved from social and political norms of that region);

2. The good done in its name: kindness and feeding the hungry, and

3. The bad. (Aztecs cutting out the hearts of children so their tears would bring rain, the Christian Inquisition, and the subjugation of women perpetuated by any current religions). For accurate understanding everything should be shown in perspective.

Would those who want the Christian view of creationism taught in schools be willing to submit their ideas to this kind of open and comparative scrutiny. I would hope so. None of this should be done in a science class.

Gene Johnson, Polson