THE clash between those who adhere to the scientific theory of evolution and those who believe that the biblical story of the six-day creation is literally true is a struggle between two religions. So concludes Michael Ruse in his accessible, skilfully written book. Since the Enlightenment, he says, scientists have offered up an alternative vision of the nature of reality, and those among them who are most opposed to religion can proselytise with as much zeal as an evangelical Christian.
For Richard Dawkins, contemplation of the natural world through the eyes of science is a religious experience, providing the same…
