DUNDEE UNIVERSITY has been accused of “antagonising Christians” with a forthcoming Christmas lecture that challenges one of the central tenets of the faith.

Second-year dental student Emily Mackie said the university’s decision to call its inaugural Dundee Christmas Lecture “Why Evolution is Right … and Creationism is Wrong” is badly timed and insensitive to Christians.

The lecture is being given by Steve Jones, professor of genetics at University College, London, who claims that all biologists support the theory of evolution and that “intelligent design”—the belief that life was created as part of a divine plan—is wrong.

Dundee University principal Alan Langlands said the lecture will “serve to celebrate the close links between the university and the people of Dundee.”

However, Miss Mackie, who is also a member of Dundee University’s Christian Union—reckons the lecture will create divisions rather than bring the community together.

She said, “I appreciate that the role of a university is to encourage academic debate on a wide range of sometimes controversial issues.

“However, as a Christian I am offended that the lecture purporting to coincide with such an important Christian festival has so clearly been chosen to antagonise Christians.

“I also feel that the lecture title allows no scope for a balanced debate on the subject.

“I call on the university to take a moral stand and choose a new title which better reflects the celebration of the birth of Christ.”

Miss Mackie added that while the Genesis tale that God created the world in six days has been disregarded by many Christians, it is still a central tenet of the faith that God created the world and is in control of human destiny.

Dundee University said its decision to book Professor Jones for its Christmas lecture was “opportunistic” as he is a highly sought after speaker who could only be available at this time.

A spokeswoman added that the university has featured both sides of the creationism debate in recent months, with two very high-profile lectures from arch-atheist Richard Dawkins and celebrity fertility expert Robert Winston, who presented the view that science can’t provide all of the answers to life on Earth.

The spokeswoman said, “There are over 700 people booked to attend what is sure to be a very interesting and highly topical debate.

“However, I would deny that we have put opportunism over sensitivity as I think this will provide an opportunity for all sides of the argument to be aired.

“There will be a question and answer session at the end of the lecture where people will be able to—and undoubtedly will—challenge Mr Jones’ point of view.”

Professor Jones’ lecture will be held on December 1 at 6pm.