Article: Biology textbooks spark ideological fireworks at hearing.(Knight Ridder Newspapers)

Byline: R.A. Dyer

AUSTIN, Texas _ Although not exactly the Scopes Monkey Trial, scores of sometimes unruly critics and proponents of modern evolutionary theory squared off Wednesday before the Texas State Board of Education.

To loud groans from the audience, applause and occasional shouts of ``Witchhunt!'' a coalition of scientists and biology educators warned against watering down textbooks with Christian-based ideas. Others said publishers should make changes that reflect flaws in evolutionary theory.

At stake: about $30 million in biology textbooks set to hit Texas classrooms in the 2004-2005 school year. The result will influence textbooks ...

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