letters.

The Evolution Battle

We, as students, have the right to learn about evolution if we want to ("Faith Versus Science," 10/4/99). One cannot say they hate broccoli if they have never tried it in their entire life; hence, one cannot say they don't believe in evolution if they have never studied what scientists actually believe happened.

TARA HUDAK Charlotte, N.C.

I found your article to be excessively biased. Those who have come to the conclusion that God is the creator of the universe are labeled simply as "creationists." This implies that these men and women are not scientists, but rather naive fanatics. Throughout the article, there is evidence supporting the evolutionary theory, but little argument allowed from the opposing view.

SARAH HAO Duluth, Ga.

Removing evolution from the science curriculum is like trying to drive a car without an engine. Creationism has absolutely no factual support, and is therefore not a theory but rather a religious belief. It is unconstitutional for any state government to remove such a well-established scientific value as the theory of evolution from the recommended public-school curriculum because of religious arguments.

LYLE RUBIN West Hartford, Conn.

UPFRONT READERS: SMOKING IS UNCOOL

More than a thousand readers answered the Upfront "Smoking Survey" (9/20/99). Here's how you replied to our questions--and some of your comments.

Do You Smoke?

30% YES 70% NO If So, When Did You Start?

61% 13 or under 30% 14-15 9% 16 or older "At first it was just something I did once in a while. Before I knew it, I was buying cigarettes."

-Mike, 19, Ohio

"I come from a small town where nothing ever happens. I started smoking when I started hanging out."

-Anonymous, Minnesota

"I decided to quit on my 16th birthday so I wouldn't make my new car smell. But I didn't get my car until a week after my birthday, so I didn't quit."

-Carolyn, 16, Texas

How do you regard smoking?

34% Dumb 32% Disgusting 19% OK, but not for me 6% Adult, sophisticated 4%...