In February, celebrated scientist Bill Nye engaged in a much-publicized debate with Christian celebrity Ken Ham about whether creationism was “viable” as a scientific theory. Polls found that Nye roundly won the debate.
Triumph in this debate, however, did not necessarily mean a win for science education. In the United States, there is still an uphill battle not only for funding and better teachers, but also to stem the proliferation of charter schools that cast doubt on evolution or flatly deny it. Nye’s biggest worry, he says, is about children — and specifically about their ability to compete and innovate in the future.
The debate with Ham eventually led Nye to pen his newest book, “Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation” (out tomorrow), which broadens, contextualizes and connects evolution to everyday life.
Salon spoke to Nye about everything from climate change and evolution, to Ken Ham and John Oliver. This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity. (Audio from the upcoming book is below.)
“That’s where I’ve failed as a scientist”: Bill Nye opens up about the climate wars - Salon.com
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