A Preconceived Mindset
The interpretation of scientific information is not as clear-cut as many would like to assume. An individual’s disposition or preconceived mindset can make interpreting scientific information, data, and facts challenging. As a believer, when I encounter scientific information, I immediately see it with the eyes of a Christian. In the same way, an evolutionist, looking at the same scientific information, will immediately see and interpret that data through different eyes.
Although biases are never favorable, awareness of your predisposition, whether creation or evolution, can be a starting point to more objectively analyze information. This, of course, does not mean that you must forsake or squash your beliefs. Instead, objectivity allows others to see the creditability of your research and better understand your interpretation of the material.
It should be noted that both creation and evolution are belief systems. Here’s the logic—no one was there at the beginning of life (until it happened!), and we have not been able to duplicate the origins of life through experimentation scientifically—therefore, scientifically speaking, neither viewpoint is “provable” instead, each must be accepted by faith—we were either created by a loving God, or through the evolutionary process of death.
Pointing Out A Preconceived Mindset
In the third novel, Keys to the Past: Unlocked, we had several opportunities to present characters oblivious to their biases. When the characters enter into discussions, the perceived mindset of an individual is quickly brought to light. Yet, often, the characters did not see their own prejudices. (This is often the case with many individuals today.)
When Dr. Foster (the scientist in the novel) interpreted the data he recovered, he looked at the information, assuming that evolution was the mechanism by which life started. By doing this, he was no longer genuinely looking at the information or data but instead simply attempting to make the data fit into a model he had already constructed and believed to be true.
Often, a creationist is looked down upon by evolutionists because they assume scientific information is only analyzed by a creationist as long as it meshes with the model and time periods explained in Genesis. This, however, is not the case. Any good scientist will analyze all the information and then come to a nonbiased conclusion; at least, we hope for this.
Creationism As Science?
Because the secular scientific community has scrutinized creationism, I feel that in many cases, creationists are more aware of their personal disposition and need for objectivity. On the other hand, many secular evolutionists have raised themselves above creationists—deeming themselves unbiased.
This is because many secular (as well as some Christian) scientists believe that evolution is a proven fact. The National Science Standards (which you can find online) state that teaching evolution is mandatory for all students. They specifically address the issue of the “problem” with creation. They point out that creation is a “religion,” yet evolution is a scientific fact.
This illustrates that there appears to be a trap some scientists and educators fall into: they are unaware of their own preconceived viewpoint (or choose to ignore it). Overcoming a biased opinion or interpretation of data can only fully happen when you admit you have one.
Do Creationists Have Preconceived Mindsets
Creationists wholeheartedly admit to believing in the first eleven chapters of Genesis—which lays out the Creation story. They realize their potential for approaching scientific data with a perceived mindset—thus, they can move past it onto the information. Most evolutionists, however, claim to be unbiased; this blindness makes them all the more vulnerable to the problem of incorrectly interpreting scientific information. By arguing they are not biased, they are, in fact, closing themselves off from overcoming—their evolutionist disposition.
Biases are an undeniable fact, for we are all human. Having said this, they should be considered when conducting research or interpreting data. Creationists have an excellent opportunity to share their faith and the truths about creation science with the entire scientific community. It is important to analyze the content of a scientific paper and the author of the work. One way to do this is to read a biography of the author or the research institution. Personally, I feel confident with the information I find on websites such as The Institute for Creation Research or Creation Studies Institute.
Being aware of personal biases is important to each of us. Understanding this issue will go a long way in preparing you and your children for the onslaught of evolutionary claims found in the general media. The good news is there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and that is the truth found in the Word of God!
Christina Gerwitz Moss was homeschooled K-12 and graduated Magnum sum Laude from FGCU with a Communication degree and a minor in Anthropology. She currently homeschools her nine children, is married to the love of her life, and continues to seek God’s will daily.
