Things That Matter
Charles Krauthammer
Contributed by Nina Calhoun
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Chapter 10
Summary

Charles Krauthammer talks about God and Man in this chapter. First, he notes the path taken by the Kansas Board of Education in eliminating evolution from the science curriculum. He claims that the introduction of creationism to replace evolution as a science is a difficult move as the Genesis story is not a scientific approach at all (Krauthammer 154). Beside, Krauthammer tries to expound on the exclusion of religion from the education system by law in the US. He sees the insensitivities associated with the decision, and the effects posed to the modern way of life especially to kids, as they seem to look for God in all the wrong places. The writer also gives his opinion on various public figures over the century, who have shown contradicting personalities on sensitive issues such as slavery and abortion. He associates the contradictions with the individuals’ personal views and the requirement by the society. For instance, Catholic politicians have to support abortion despite the firm stand against the issue by the church.

Krauthammer also identifies the differences exhibited by conservative Americans from liberal thinkers. It seems that the two groups always put their energies on different issues, and their devotions vary with respects to their beliefs. Similarly, the education system puts an effort in educating the youngsters on life issues that seem not to have a morality value originating from a biblical, traditional or Victorian point of view. The issue of atheism also occurs in the chapter, with more attention going to the Soviet way of life. In particular, the author talks about the funerals of the Soviet nations, as they have no mention of God at any point. Nonetheless, he acknowledges the beliefs held by different people around the world (Krauthammer 160).

Analysis

Krauthammer cleverly and appropriately talks about God and man, considering the weight put on religious issues in the country. As he talks about evolution and creationism, he is trying to show how the two concepts are incomparable meaning that one cannot replace one with the other. His profound support for the Genesis point of view over the evolution shows his religious affiliation and his opinion on the concepts that science cannot prove. Besides, talking about the different and contradictory perspectives shown by people on various issues shows how the society influences the opinions of people. He quotes that one may have personal views but cannot let them influence the other people. Krauthammer also thinks that the education system has to introduce a moral point to ensure that the kids lead morally upright lives. Besides, mentioning the Soviet way shows that the author appreciates diversity despite the existing difference in various cultures around the globe.

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