Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed 2008
Directed by
Nathan Frankowski
Made by
Rocky Mountain Pictures
Plot Summary
In this insightful satirical documentary, Ben Stein takes center stage as he explores the criticisms and hostility faced by advocates of Intelligent Design in today’s scientific community. Throughout the film, Stein primarily serves as a host, guiding viewers through a series of interviews that shed light on the lack of academic freedom and presenting a balanced perspective from scientists on both sides of this contentious issue.
The movie features approximately thirty interviewees, including a diverse group of scientists, journalists, and even a US congressman. Most of the scientists hail from various prestigious universities in the United States and Britain, while the documentary also includes perspectives from a scientist in Paris and another in Poland. Notably, among the more skeptical voices are Dr. Richard Dawkins, the renowned author of The God Delusion, and Dr. P.Z. Myers, known for his Pharyngula blog. They stand firmly against the incorporation of intelligent design into educational and professional scientific discussions.
Conversely, supporters of intelligent design, such as Dr. Guillermo Gonzalez, co-author of The Privileged Planet, and Dr. Alistair McGrath, writer of The Dawkins Delusion, argue for the inclusion of these concepts in scientific dialogues. Their insights form a crucial part of the narrative woven throughout the documentary.
To enhance the viewing experience, the film frequently incorporates black-and-white clips—some crafted in a vintage film style and others extracted from classic movies. These segments serve to humorously underscore Stein’s commentary or visually augment the points made by the interviewees. Additionally, a vibrant two-minute computer animation depicting activities within a cell, set to music, enriches the content further.
The DVD also features a special clip showcasing the thoughts of two scientists who currently apply the principles of “intelligent design” in their research, rounding out this thought-provoking examination of one of the most discussed topics in modern science.
Timeline
Introduction to the Topic
The film opens with Ben Stein introducing the topic of Intelligent Design and its controversial status in the scientific community. He outlines the main focus of the documentary, which is to explore the criticisms and hostility faced by advocates of this theory.
Interviews Begin
Stein embarks on a journey to gather opinions from a wide range of experts, including scientists, journalists, and even a U.S. congressman. These interviews expose the varying viewpoints on the topic and set the stage for an in-depth discussion.
Focus on Academic Freedom
Throughout the documentary, the theme of academic freedom is emphasized, highlighting the challenges faced by those who support Intelligent Design. This includes stories of backlash and professional risk taken by advocates who stand against the mainstream scientific narrative.
Diverse Perspectives
The documentary features around thirty interviewees, showcasing a plethora of perspectives. Scientists from prestigious universities in both the U.S. and Britain, along with international voices from Paris and Poland, contribute to the dialogue on Intelligent Design.
Skeptical Voices Presented
Dawkins and Myers, both prominent skeptics of Intelligent Design, vocalize their opposition to its inclusion in scientific curriculum and discourse. Their arguments reinforce the documentary's exploration of criticisms surrounding the theory.
Support from Proponents
Proponents like Dr. Guillermo Gonzalez and Dr. Alistair McGrath present their cases for incorporating Intelligent Design into scientific discussions. Their insights challenge the strict boundaries of what is considered permissible in academic circles.
Use of Historical Clips
The film creatively integrates black-and-white clips from vintage films and classic cinema. These segments are cleverly used to enhance Stein's commentary or to visually support the points brought up by the interviewees.
Animated Illustrations
To further enhance understanding, the documentary includes a vibrant two-minute computer animation that visualizes activities within a cell. This animated segment, set to music, engages viewers while enriching the educational content of the film.
Special DVD Features
As a bonus, the DVD contains a special clip featuring interviews with two scientists who actively incorporate Intelligent Design principles in their research. This addition provides firsthand insight into practical applications of the concepts discussed in the film.
Comprehensive Examination
The documentary culminates in a comprehensive examination of the debate surrounding Intelligent Design. By presenting balanced arguments from both sides, it encourages viewers to think critically about the implications of these discussions within the scientific community.
Characters
Ben Stein
Ben Stein serves as the host and guiding voice of the documentary, leading the discussion on intelligent design and its reception in the scientific community. He is portrayed as a thoughtful and inquisitive figure who seeks to illuminate the complexities of the debate. Stein's commentary balances humor with seriousness, drawing viewers into the conversation.
Dr. Richard Dawkins
Dr. Richard Dawkins is a prominent evolutionary biologist known for his strong opposition to intelligent design. His articulate arguments make him a key figure in the documentary, representing the skeptical voice in the scientific community. Dawkins is characterized by his passionate commitment to science and his critiques of creationist ideologies.
Dr. P.Z. Myers
A vocal critic of intelligent design, Dr. P.Z. Myers offers insights from his blogging platform, *Pharyngula*. He is depicted as an outspoken advocate for evolutionary biology, challenging misconceptions about science. Myers brings a provocative and engaging perspective to the discussions, enhancing the film's critical exploration.
Dr. Guillermo Gonzalez
Dr. Guillermo Gonzalez champions the idea of intelligent design and represents its proponents in the film. His arguments for inclusion of these ideas in scientific dialogue highlight the pushback against mainstream scientific thought. Gonzalez's presence adds depth to the exploration of intellectual diversity in science.
Dr. Alistair McGrath
Dr. Alistair McGrath, a vocal supporter of intelligent design, contributes counterarguments to the criticisms presented by Dawkins and Myers. His scholarly perspective brings a theological dimension to the discussion, showcasing the intersection of science and belief systems within academia.
Setting
Time period
The film reflects contemporary discussions on intelligent design versus evolutionary theory, situating itself in the modern era of science and education. It engages with recent criticisms against advocates of intelligent design and highlights ongoing debates within the scientific community.
Location
United States, Britain, Paris, Poland
The documentary takes place primarily in the United States and Britain, highlighting various universities and academic settings. Paris and Poland provide additional perspectives, showcasing the international reach of the debate over intelligent design. These locations are known for their rich academic traditions and contributions to scientific discourse.
Themes
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Intellectual Freedom
The theme of intellectual freedom is central to the documentary, revealing the challenges faced by advocates of intelligent design. It explores the tension between scientific consensus and varying beliefs, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue in academia. The film invites viewers to consider the implications of censorship in scientific discussions.
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Science vs. Belief
This theme examines the conflict between established scientific beliefs and alternative theories like intelligent design. The documentary presents perspectives from both sides, prompting critical reflection on how science is defined and who gets to participate in that definition. It raises questions about the nature of evidence and faith in scientific inquiry.
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