Not Just Any Animal — Intelligent Design Education Day (Spokane)

Discovery Institute is pleased to announce that our annual Intelligent Design Education Day is returning to Spokane, Washington with thanks to our hosts at Great Northern University.

The question at hand this year: Are humans merely another species in the animal kingdom? We share many physical traits, instincts, and even genetics with our fellow creatures. But is that all there is to it? Are we simply an unintended evolutionary branch on the great tree of life?

This year’s theme — Not Just Any Animal — will argue that humans are much more than just one of the 8+ million unique animal species on planet Earth. Our intelligence, creativity, rationality, and spirituality transcend any biological classification and confer unique rights and responsibilities.

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary this year, it is fitting that we consider the scientific evidence for human uniqueness that, in part, inspired the founders to write in the Declaration of Independence that it is “self-evident” that humans are “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights”.

Join us on Thursday, March 26, to explore this important theme. The event is open to all ages but designed especially for middle school and high school students in home or private school settings. Take advantage of this field trip opportunity for students to meet and interact directly with scientists and scholars. There will be lots of audience participation, opportunities to win prizes, and additional resources to explore at the bookstore.

The goal of this annual event is to introduce students to the concept of intelligent design, to share recent scientific findings, and to think critically about the evidence (or lack thereof) for Darwinian evolution. In the panel Q&A, students will be encouraged to engage with our presenters on the broader implications of their presentations on culture and worldview, thereby helping them develop critical thinking skills and (in many cases) bolster their faith.

Register today, and stay tuned for full lineup of speakers and sessions coming soon!