Pandas and People by Davis & Kenyon

Of Pandas and People, the Central Question of Biological Origins, by Davis and Kenyon is the text book that some members of the Dover, PA School Board attempted, to make available as a reference book, as part of the ninth-grade biology curriculum in Dover High School. The Board voted against the use of the supplemental text; however, the Dover Superintendent and his assistant went to every ninth-grade classroom and read the following statement (in part):
Because Darwin’s Theory is a theory, it continues to be tested as new evidence is discovered. The Theory is not a fact. Gaps in the Theory exist for which there is no evidence. A theory is defined as a well-tested explanation that unifies a broad range of observations. Intelligent Design is an explanation of the origins of life that differs from Darwin’s view. The reference book, Of Pandas and People, is available for students who might be interested in gaining an understanding of what Intelligent Design actually involves. (God or Gorilla, page 161).

In Of Pandas and People, Hartwig and Meyer write in A Note to Teachers:
In sum, then, only in the most trivial sense- change over time- can evolution be considered a fact. Far from being a legitimate reason for avoiding alternative views, the alleged ‘fact of evolution’ underscores precisely why a book like Pandas is so necessary. If students are to achieve true scientific literacy, they must learn to distinguish fact from supposition. A curriculum that blurs this distinction serves neither the students nor society. (page 157). Hence, when investigating the origin of the living world, it may be perfectly acceptable- depending on the evidence- to hypothesize an intelligent designer. (page 159).

In 2004 eleven parents represented by the PA ACLU filed suit where Judge John Jones III presided in Harrisburg, PA.