Mrs. Green is teaching her daily science class one day when suddenly she receives terrible news: A popular student named Amanda was struck by a car on her way to class and has been hospitalized with serious injuries. Let's all pray for Amanda, says one earnest classmate. Surely God will make her well if He hears our prayers. Mrs. Green is confronted with the dilemma that every public school teacher must be ready to deal with. While the church-state separation laws won't allow school prayer, Mrs. Green wants to do something to help her students cope with a life-threatening situation that has raised deep questions. Thus begins a conversation between teacher and students that forms the basis of this thoughtful work. Starting with the historic concept of separation of church and state, the curious youngsters' insistent questions lead to a consideration of philosophic issues: Why shouldn't they pray for Amanda in class? Why do some people believe in God while others don't? Is there life after death? What gives life meaning? In the course of what becomes a parent-approved after-school discussion, Mrs. Green presents a humanist point of view, emphasizing science's explanation of life and freedom of thought. Complete with discussion questions, suggestions for activities, and a bibliography, this innovative approach to presenting humanism to young adults will be welcome by parents and teachers looking to expose their children or students to a secular philosophic perspective.
- ISBN10 1615920250
- ISBN13 9781615920259
- Publish Date 28 January 2010 (first published 20 February 2005)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Prometheus Books
- Format eBook
- Pages 77
- Language English