Evolution and intelligent design: SSHRC in the news

This past month, there has been much debate concerning the decision on a proposal entitled "Detrimental effects of popularizing anti-evolution's intelligent design theory on Canadian students, teachers, parents, administrators, and policy-makers," submitted to SSHRC by Dr. Brian Alters of McGill University.

The theory of evolution is not in doubt. SSHRC recognizes the theory of evolution as one of the cornerstones of modern science and of our understanding of the world. As part of its support for critical enquiry in the social sciences and humanities, SSHRC has funded many research projects on evolution and society over the years. Projects of this nature that meet the standards for scientific excellence will continue to be funded.

SSHRC's decision on this proposal was the outcome of an internationally-recognized peer-review process, which is used to ensure that all funded projects meet the highest standards for academic excellence. Decisions are taken through a rigorous and competitive process. Each research proposal is reviewed by a comittee of independent experts, which then provides advice to SSHRC regarding the quality of the proposals and whether it should be funded. In its appraisal of this proposal, the review committee was not convinced that it met the necessary threshold conditions of quality of approach and methodology.

SSHRC regrets that the summary of the committee's comments sent to Dr. Alters was poorly formulated; however, the review committee has confirmed to SSHRC that it did not reject the application as a result of any doubts about the validity of the theory of evolution.

As a granting agency, SSHRC's concern is to ensure that the peer review of all proposals is rigorous, fair and proper. SSHRC also recognizes that checks and balances are important in the peer-review system. If an applicant believes the decision-making process was flawed, he or she may appeal and the Council will address the complaint immediately through its appeals process.

In addition, SSHRC is currently reviewing its quality control process to ensure that committees' views are expressed clearly in letters sent to applicants.

SSHRC is mandated to support a broad spectrum of research in the social sciences and humanities in Canada. SSHRC-funded projects shed light on social, economic and other issues that affect Canadians’ everyday lives.