The creationism evolution controversy has become a problem of major concern in many states, especially Arkansas and Louisiana, and is the basis for dispute in many courts. Creationists, sensing the need for a modern approach, have now become less concerned with the theological rationale for their argument and have turned to the scientific field as a base for their claims. Creationism starts with a fixed position, a conclusion, which is in direct contrast with that of pure science which holds to nothing until facts are generated which point toward an assumption, then an experimentally-based theory, and in some cases, finally, a law. For the true religious fundamentalist, the Bible is the literal word of God and within its pages are the answers and solutions to life's problems and perplexities. When the Bible says in clear language that God created the world in six days and then rested on the seventh, man, say the creationists, should believe that precisely as it is written. This position held by creationists is contrasted to the position promulgated by modern scientists. Several reactions to the controversy are discussed. (Author/JN)