The Smithsonian generated some controversy recently when it was learned that the museum was going to allow the Seattle-based Discovery Institute, the group pushing the "Intelligent Design" agenda, to screen a film titled "The Privileged Planet" on the museum grounds. The film, apparently (I have not seen it), promotes Intelligent Design.
A relative of mine who is in a graduate program on museum science has been forwarding emails from a discussion group among curators and students about the Smithsonian's decision, and many of these people have been in contact with the Smithsonian, arguing that screening the ID film was at odds with the very purpose of a museum. The Smithsonian has just issued a response, and it seems they decided the critics were correct. However, they won't be preventing the showing, as they have apparently already entered into a contract with the Discovery Institute to allow the use of their facilities for the movie as a private event.
The complete Smithsonian statement is below:
To the Museum Community:
After considerable discussion with NMNH staff and in consultation with the Secretary and his staff, we have agreed to issue the following statement regarding the planned presentation of the Discovery Institute film, "The Privileged Planet," in Baird Auditorium on June 23. Please feel free to share this statement with your colleagues. I will look forward to discussing this further with each of you in the very near future.
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Statement by the Director, National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History recently approved a request by the Discovery Institute to hold a private, invitation-only screening and reception at the Museum on June 23 for the film "The Privileged Planet." Upon further review we have determined that the content of the film is not consistent with the mission of the Smithsonian Institution's scientific research.
Neither the Smithsonian Institution nor the National Museum of Natural History supports or endorses the Discovery Institute or the film "The Privileged Planet." However, since Smithsonian policy states that all events held at any museum be "co-sponsored" by the director and the outside organization, and we have signed an agreement with this organization, we will honor the commitment made to provide space for the event.
So there you have it. A moral victory, anyway.