Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Muskegon Community College (MCC) invites students, faculty, and community members to attend “The Theory of Evolution on Trial: 100 Years Since the Scopes Case and Where We Are Now,” in honor of Anthropology Day. The event will take place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 12:20 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Room 1300 of the Stevenson Center at 221 S. Quarterline Road in Muskegon.

The discussion will feature MCC faculty members Evin Rodkey, Ph.D. (Anthropology), Andrew Wible, Ph.D. (Philosophy), and Nicholas Budimir (Sociology) as they explore the historical significance of the Scopes Trial, its impact on scientific thought, and its relevance in today’s politicized landscape.

The Scopes Monkey Trial, formally known as The State of Tennessee v. John Thomas Scopes, took place in 1925 and became one of the most famous legal battles in U.S. history. High school teacher John Scopes was charged with violating Tennessee’s Butler Act, which prohibited the teaching of evolution in public schools. The trial, which pitted defense attorney Clarence Darrow against prosecutor William Jennings Bryan, sparked a nationwide debate on science, religion, and education. Although Scopes was found guilty and fined, the case set the stage for ongoing discussions about academic freedom and the separation of church and state in education.

One hundred years later, the Scopes Trial remains a critical touchpoint in debates over science, education, and public policy.

“Studying the Scopes Trial helps us understand the broader struggles between science and ideology, facts and beliefs, and how these debates continue to shape our society,” said Dr. Evin Rodkey, MCC Professor of Anthropology. “It’s not just history—it’s a conversation we are still having today.”

MCC’s The Theory of Evolution on Trial will offer insights into how scientific theories, legal precedents, and political ideologies intersect. In addition, attendees will witness a reenactment of key moments from the Scopes Trial, along with the Anthropology Department’s collection of skull casts from extinct human ancestors—giving the audience a chance to see them up close and even touch them!

Admission is free and open to the public.

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