TVSquad

(S17E21)

Ned: We want you to teach alternative theories to Darwinian evolution.

Skinner: You mean Lamarckian evolution?

Last night The Simpsons took on creationism versus evolution, pitting Lisa against the rest of the town. This isn't the first time the show has tackled the issue of science and religion, most notably in the "Lisa the Skeptic" episode in which the supposed skeleton of a dead angel is found. Last night's episode had some good moments, but it did feel like they were treading upon somewhat familiar ground and not saying anything especially new.

When Flanders finds out the local museum makes no mention of God in its history of man, he gets Skinner to throw out evolution and teach creationism. The kids soon learn that the ocean is comprised of God's tears and that Darwin was a cowardly drunk who made out with Satan. When Lisa secretly tries to teach evolution to some of her fellow students, she's arrested and put on trial. Lisa insists one must choose between science or belief, though at one point during the trial Professor Frink does acknowledge that God could still fit within the framework of evolution, he'd just have no real power, like the secretary of agriculture.

A few moments that stuck out for me:

Homer's "to do" list, which included finding and destroying Atlantis.

When Lisa points out George Will accepts evolution, Ralph responds with, "the George Will?"

Bart tries to give Lisa a new identity by changing her name to "Senorita Ugly," a girl whose occupation is listed on her card as "booger picker."

I also liked when, during the trial, Flanders is asked if he's familiar with the Bible and responds, "as familiar as it's proper to be."