Endorsements - Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster

“As a scientist, I’d like to say that the currently accepted scientific theory is evolution. But, some competing ideas have been proposed, such as ID and FSMism, and discussion to include one should include the other, as these ideas are equally valid.“
— Mark Zurbuchen, Ph.D.

“As a medical practitioner and scientist, I wholeheartedly believe that every theory and hypothesis needs full consideration and explanation with formal ratification by peer review. We have a duty to inform our schools and presumably pasta should form a staple part of our educational diet.“
— Dr. A. Macintyre (UK)

“Letting the religious right teach ID in schools is like letting the Marines teach poetry in advanced combat training. As a scientist, I see these the relevancy between the two sets to be equal. If Kansas is going to mess up like this, the least it can do is not be hypocritical and allow equal time for other alternative “theories” like FSMism, which is by far the tastier choice.”
— J. Simon, PhD

“One of the hardest things to do as a scientist is to put my personal beliefs aside when discussing matters of science. So as a professional, I have to say that both forms of Intelligent Design – ID and ID-FSM are equally valid and if intelligent design is taught in schools, equal time should be given to the FSM theory and the non-FSM theory. But, speaking personally now, it seems to me the FSM theory is MUCH more plausable than the non-FSM ID theory, because it is the only one of the two that takes into account all the discrepancies between ID and measureable objective reality.”
— Professor Douglas Shaw, Ph.D

“In discussing competing theories, if one is to present ID then it is only fair and logical to teach other theories with commensurate evidence. Based on Mr. Henderson’s letter, it is clear that the FSM theory has evidence comparable in weight to ID. As a scientist and professor, it is often difficult to present differing opinions in an unbiased way. However, it is important to the student to be exposed to these ideas to form their own opinions. This comes right out of the handbook of the ID purporters: present the different “theories” and let the listener decide. If those in favor of ID are so convinced, then they should not be concerned that the presentation of the FSM theory would serve to undermine the credibility of ID. “
— Elizabeth Garrett-Mayer, PhD

“At one time, I believed as the Aztecs did, that the universe was created by two gods, Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca who attacked and ripped apart Hungry Woman to create the universe. Then I believed, as the Moriori do, that the universe was created when Papa and her husband Rangi hugged and bore children, and were subsequently separated by their son Tane who let light shine between them. However, my views have been swayed by the substantial evidence that the earth and universe was actually created relatively recently by the Flying Spaghetti Monster (FSM). I am firmly convinced that the evidence supporting this depiction of the origins of life, the universe, and everything has many of the trappings of science, and I therefore support the inclusion of FSM creation evidence in the Kansas science curriculum and standards.“
— Sebastian Wren, Ph.D

“ One of the most exciting developments in fundamental physics in the last twenty years has been the development of so-called “String Theory.” In String Theory, all fundamental sub-atomic particles are visualized and described mathematically as microscopic vibrating strings. Although as yet unproven, many physicists believe that String Theory has the potential to become the long-sought “Theory of Everything,” through which the fundamental physical nature of all matter and forces will become understood.

Obviously String Theory IS correct, although misnamed (a secular humanist conspiracy perhaps?). As NOODLE Theory clearly unambiguously reveals, He has created the fundamental subatomic particles that form all matter in this universe in His own quivering image! You, me, the Earth, the stars…everything in the universe…are all built of trillions of tiny jiggling noodles, microscopic copies of our Divine Saucy Maker. Truly He is everywhere and in all things!
Boy-oh-Boyardi and Ramen!“
–Steve Lawrence, PhD

“As a scientist I believe that when presented with a new idea every possibility should be considered so we can eventually find the truth. It would be very biased if the only possibilities presented would be regulated by some authority. As a scientist I am biased towards the theory of evolution, but this does not mean that everyone should be forced to only learn this and believe this. Putting this aside, I feel if the government feels the need to regulate what students need to learn, then all ideas should be taught in school. Not only Intelligent Design (ID) should be taught, but the theory of the Flying Spaghetti Monster (FSM) should also be taught. In my scientific opinion when comparing the two theories, FSM theory seems to be more valid then the classic ID theory. There is more data to back FSM then I have ever seen for ID. The graph which was presented should alone more convincing then anything ID has ever presented. I endorse the FSM theory.“
–Afshin Beheshti, PhD

“As a scienctist, I think that ID is a form of pseudoscience–nothing more, nothing less. Pseudosciences lack the well-designed and carefully-interpreted experiments which characterize the true sciences. ID is popular because it provides the general public with an easily understood “answer” to nature’s complexity. Why is it human nature to try to fill the gaps in science with some form of a deity? Nobel laureate Richard Feynman, in his response the Challenger disaster, wrote, “For a successful technology, reality must take precedence over public relations, for Nature cannot be fooled.” It is too bad that many in the USA have fallen into the ID trap, and are making emotional rather than logical decisions.

That being said, and the more I consider ID and the Flying Spaghetti Monster (FSM) theory, the FSM theory has a lot going for it. First, it should satisfy even the most ardent ID detractors. Secondly, since everyone needs to eat and to believe in something, the FSM theory fulfills these desires. Finally, FSM neatly ties together the many ideas about the creation of the universe. I plan on exposing my students to the FSM theory over a pasta dinner. “
–Elizabeth Cowles, PhD

Continue to Academic Endorsements – page 2

“MMMMMmmmmm, spaghetti”
–H. Neville, Ph.D.

“As a former art historian, I must say that FSM wins hands down over ID when it comes to the complexity of its iconography. ID has produced little aesthetic response to its point of view. FSM on the other hand has stimulated a spontaneous outpouring of highly expressive art.”
–Laura Jones, Ph.D.

“On Science, Evolution and Intelligent Design What needs to be taught in the schools is how to evaluate scientific evidence, make decisions and think critically. Science is always in flux. New discoveries are always changing our view of current knowledge, refining and fine tuning our view of nature and the world. I came across a factoid the other day that the average Renaissance man encountered in a lifetime the amount of information found in one issue of the New York Times Newspaper. Today, the average person, including the average teenager, is immersed in data from the moment they get up in the morning until they go to bed. They need to be taught skills to help them sort through this amazing morass of information of varying levels of worth. Concrete ?truisms? such as creationism or that relative dressed up in a suit and tie called intelligent design that cannot bend or adapt to new incoming knowledge only do the children of this nation a disservice. Evolution is based on scientific facts. Intelligent design is a form of marketing. The truth must be told.”
–Judith Challis, Ph.D.

“The riducule of FSMism by believers in ID is a beautifully ironic hypocracy. It is a classic case of faith-blindness and the worst of intellectual behaviour that can be observed in religion. In this instance the believers in ID run roughshod over the believers in FSMism by claiming their ‘Faith’ is correct and decrying the FSM ‘Faith’ as wrong. It is not possible to scientifically qualify ‘Faith’ and thus a comparison of ‘Faith’ in this fashion is meaningless and offensive. If no evidence can be provided to support either then both are equally valid or invalid, regardless of how angry or indignant the supporters may be. ”
–Andy Parsons, Ph.D.

“As a research scientist, I am strongly in favor of the simplest explanations inferred from empirical data. It’s quite clear to me that the evidence for the Flying Spaghetti Monster’s creation of the Universe is as good as that for Intelligent Design, as accepted by the Kansas school board. I therefore wholeheartedly support your letter, in that FSMism should get equal treatment under the auspices of the state government.”
— Brock M. Tice, Ph.D.

“I hope no one confuses the terrible and naÃ¯ve notion of ID with what it means to be Christian. In a way, ID represents a very flawed unChristian God who was incompetent to the task of creating capable natural laws, and so resorted to post-creation tinkering, thus giving the impression of supernatural design. Yet, if supernaturalism be called for, then the pasta family of theologies seems the most plausible, and unquestionably the tastiest with cheese.”
–Stephen D. Unwin, Ph.D., Author of “The Probability of God” (Three Rivers Press, 2004)

“Few people realize that the very 2nd word in the bible is mistranslated. The original Hebrew says ” in A beginning…” whereas most translations say “in THE beginning…” And therein lies the Truth: there was more than one beginning. In fact, there were three: The 1st followed Evolution as discovered by Darwin; the 2nd followed Intelligent Design; but the 3rd and most successful is the present FSMism discovered by you. So, you see, teaching all three is imperative!”
— Dr. Uriel Goldberg

“Having now perused the many facets of Pastafarianism (and being both a scientist and a specialist in the anthroplogy of religion), I believe that there is great scope for women in this religion. Clearly the FSM has aspects of both male and female, with both “noodly appendages” and two round meatballs which clearly represent the Breasts of the Great Mother Goddess. Given this inclusion of diversity, I feel that Pastafarianism has MORE to offer budding students than ID, which is notably narrow in its outlook.”
–Susan Johnston, PhD

“As a professional paleontologist, I need to emphasize that evolutionary theory has nothing to do with explaining the origin of life. Evolution is the scientific explanation that explains the diversity of life that we see all around us. It is usually defined very simply as a change in gene frequencies through time. It’s not about origins.

Pastafarianism attempts to explain the origins of the universe, and does so with as much or more validity (and more gusto!) than ID creationism. And maybe many people find a sense of ultimate purpose in the universe by believing in the Flying Spaghetti Monster. But such beliefs are based upon faith, not science. In fact, considering His active distortions of observable data, science cannot comment upon these beliefs at all, and must proceed in it’s usual manner — testing hypotheses based upon observable data. Whether these data have been altered by His Noodliness is moot; a difference which makes no difference is not difference.

Pastafarianism does not constitute a scientific theory, despite it’s apparent adherence to Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle regarding the interactions of observer and observed. It should not be taught as science … unless, of course, ID creationism is also taught as science, in which case all bets are off.

Best of luck with your web page. I’m off to The Old Spaghetti Factory for worship.”
–E. Scott

“As a neuroscientist and clinical psychologist, I have often been struck by how the brain resembles pasta. Clearly, the Flying Spaghetti Monster theory is worthy of deep thought. Or at least a side order of garlic toast. Which is more than I can say about ID, which, as St. Sigmund taught, should be subservient to EGO (Equally Goofy Observations).”
–James Blackburn, Ph.D.

“A colleague told me of the gospel of the Flying Spaghetti Monster.

At first, frankly, as a professional astronomer, I was skeptical. What scientific proof does Bobby have of the existence of His Noodlyness, or must I take it on faith alone (as, of course, I do with the theory of evolution).

But then I thought back to one of our pictures taken with the Hubble Space Telescope; you can see it at:

http://heritage.stsci.edu/2002/14/big.html

This picture shows the nebula IC 4406, which as you can see is filled with Noodly structures! Not only does this image scientifically PROVE the existence of the FSM, I believe it shows His home in space.”
–Howard Bond, Ph.D.

Continue to Academic Endorsements – page 3

“I have now read and reread the information on Flying Spaghetti Monsterism (FSM) and I have to admit that it is frankly on par with (and in many ways superior to) the alternative proposed by the Kansas School Board. Having been employed by a school district in the state of Utah in the past, I can speak from experience when it comes to the mixture of education and religion. If Intelligent Design (ID) is accepted by the Board we will fight to have FSM accepted as well, and, once this has been accomplished, I am certainly willing to assist in the training of the Kansas school psychologists in the philosophy of FSM, if the ministers and pirates of the Church find me worthy.

As closing note, as a clinical psychologist and newly devoted disciple of FSM, I am going to write and suggest to the APA (American Pasta Association) that we replace the current diagnostic and statistical manual, the DSM-IV, with the FSM-IV. That way if our clients don’t like our diagnoses, they can eat them.”
–Lynne Anne Daurelle, Ph.D.

“As a historic buildings surveyor I help conserve a number of places of worship during the course of my work. I would draw you and your readers’ attention to the sometimes shabby condition of the buildings that Pastafarians frequent to imbibe His wheat-based message. I implore all true believers to instigage a regular Sunday morning pilgrimage to their local all-you-can-worship ristorante or pizzaria. Remember to tip well to ensure these sacred sites are preserved for future generations.”
–Matt Green, PhD.

“As a former research scientist using carbon dating, I was taken with your explanation of the FSM controlling the mechanics of carbon dating. It now seems obvious to me that the FSM must control the apparent half lives of all other radio isotopes, and similarly manipulates experimental results to produce the ages He wishes us to see. What gives me tremendous respect for the FSM is that He clearly does this with a master plan in mind, such that ‘dates’ from entirely different isotope systems are all in miraculous agreement with one another. Especially amazing is that samples from geographically different locations, deemed to be from the same geological age on the basis of common fossils produce the same dates. This clever manipulation gives the impression of the evolution of progressively more advanced life forms through time, when the obvious truth is that the smarter creatures ran higher up in the mountains to escape the great [spaghetti sauce?] flood. Clearly the FSM is omnipresent and omnipotent, and carefully rearranges results not to merely befuddle scientists, but to create a carefully sculpted and internally consistent picture of the age and history of the earth such as He wants us to see it. This is truly the hallmark of THE supreme being. Making a watch is nothing in comparison to actually manipulating isotopic ratios. Truly we are blessed to be the product of His Noodly Appendage!”
— Brandon Beierle, Ph.D.

“As both a minister and a scientist, I agree with you that there is no place in the science curriculum for ID or related pseudo-scientific theories of how humans came to be. Evolution is the scientific explanation for life on earth. If schools are going to include “alternative theories” in the curriculum that are not based upon the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment, then FSMism is as good ID, so I support efforts 100%.”
–Rev. E. Wayne Ross, Ph.D.

“I am writing to support the inclusion of FSM in the Kansas school curriculum. Your writings on the teachings of the FSM as creator of the universe are as credible and valid as the views promoted by the followers of ID theory. As a sociologist, I believe that research must also be conducted on the rising popularity of low-carbohydrate diets. I suspect there is a strong correlation between this trend and the persecution of those who support the teachings of FSM. I hope the Kansas School Board will promote inclusion and tolerance by teaching FSM theories.”
–Stephannie C. Roy, Ph.D.

“As a geneticist trained in evolutionary biology, I am deeply familiar with most of the substantial scientific uncertainties inherent in evolutionary understanding. These uncertainties, of course, relate
to precise mechanisms, timings, rates and sequences of events, not in the underlying facts of historical and ongoing evolution.

As a scientist, I am also passingly familiar with the uncertainties concerning global warming which also relate to the precise mechanisms, timings, rates and sequences of events, not in the underlying facts of historical and ongoing global warming.

However, until I read your enlightening website, it never occurred to me that these two phenomena might share deeper more profound similarities.

The logical theory you present is highly thought provoking and worthy of great interest. As I believe this is approximately the standard currently being advocated by the Kansas School Board
to warrant teaching in the public schools, I certainly hope these stimulating ideas are taught along side all other theories meeting that standard.”
— David J. Cutler, Ph. D.

“Both the existence and power of His Noodleness have long been recognized — if sometimes unconsciously — by many diverse sources. Fortunately, the lucid tools of postmodern analysis can make that evidence visible and irrefutable. Here are just a few examples. (1) Sir Walter Scott’s famous line “Oh what a tangled web we weave” contains an unmistakable reference to spaghetti — the substance of our Lordship. (2) Close observers of human behavior will note that Italians have long de facto recognized pastafarianism as a serious competitor to Catholicism, practicing the former more frequently and with even greater gusto. (3) The song “Yankee Doodle” celebrates His Noodleness, even capturing His amazing ability to create Himself out of a decorated headpiece through a mere change of nomenclature. (4) The very name of the famous Chicago-based Pizzeria Uno embeds a belief in the Oneness of Him. (5) When computer scientists speak of “spaghetti code”, their reference to something incomprehensible by humans serves to heighten the gulf between our finite minds and His omniscience, as does (6) the often-heard remonstration “Use your noodle”. (7) The common phrase “It went over like a wet noodle” clearly refers to His continual surveyance of all from Above.

With such honorable and compelling credentials, pastafarianism cannot be dismissed out of hand. It is certainly on an equal evidential footing with ID and deserves incorporation into any school curriculum that insists upon teaching ID. Besides, the FSM has the advantage of being much more palatable. “Opt for farfalle, not far-fetched. With Him all things are pastable.” “
–Charles E. M. Dunlop, Ph.D.

“When I saw your story on the Flying Spaghetti Monster, I immediately did what any thinking person would do when coming across something published on a website, that is, took it seriously as a valid scientific theory. But any theory, even one so seemingly self-evident as the FSM theory, requires testing, and I realized the data necessary to validate the theory is right on your page. I’m speaking of course of the relationship between pirates and global warming. It seems obvious from your graph that pirates have been actively preventing global warming, and as the number of pirates diminishes, they are less able to influence climate change. But why would pirates be concerned about global warming? Think of every pirate story you’ve ever read, what do they all have in common? (Well, besides the eye-patches, and the parrots, and the Arrrrgghhs, etc.) Buried treasure. And where is the treasure always buried? On the shore of some uninhabited island. No doubt you can see where this is going – if the climate warms, the sea levels rise, and the pirates can no longer find their treasure which is now underwater. Even their treasure maps would no longer be useful. Does evolutionary theory or Intelligent Design explain this relationship? I think not. So we have a possible, reasonable-sounding explanation for some part of the unconfirmed data you’ve selectively included in your theory. Our experience with Intelligent Design shows us is all that is needed to elevate anything from a simple hypothetical musing to a legitimate theory which deserves to be taught in the classroom. I hope this helps in your quest to spread the gospel, err, I mean, fundamental scientific law, of FSM to all thinking Kansans and other Americans.“
–Dave Williams

“In His infinite wisdom, the Flying Spaghetti Monster understands that, to a scientist, gravity is a theory. While members of the Intelligent Design Institute, the Flat Earth Society, and the Center for the Study of Intelligent Falling have a right to their views, they ought not to expect that their views be taught as science in a public school. The Great Noodly One knows that although faith may provide a moral lens through which to examine the results of scientific inquiry, human beings (and pasta-based deities) would be mistaken to see science as a threat to religion.

Finally, I would add that if Kansas schools (or any other public schools) are going to teach Intelligent Design as science, then they should clearly include the teachings of the First United Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster. And, though there will be Pastafarians who disagree with me, I think that these schools should also include the theories of the Reformed Church of Alfredo and of the Cult of Oregano. That said, some ideas are too silly for even the Kansas public schools. For this reason, I would argue that we keep the Church of the Invisible Pink Unicorn out of the science curriculum. I mean, come on, now — that’s ridiculous!“
— Philip Nel, Ph.D. , Associate Professor of English, Kansas State University

“I am a practicing scientist, trained in drawing conclusions from data. I am happy to attest that the evidence in favor of Flying Spaghetti Monsterism is as compelling as the evidence in favor of any other faith. For this reason, Flying Spaghetti Monsterism should certainly be given equal time in the science classes of any society that wishes to place faith-based teachings on an equal basis with teachings based on scientific evidence. Flying Spaghetti Monsterism may well provide the solid basis on which the good children of Kansas can build a just, rational, and virtuous life.“
–Chris Westbury, Ph.D

“In the realm of creation myths, Flying Spaghetti Monsterism provides an incredibly comprehensive explanation for the Universe and life within it. If such myths are to be cast in the guise of theories and taught in science class, it is indeed only fair to teach Flying Spaghetti Monsterism along side other “theories” such as Intelligent Design. If and when this happens, Flying Spaghetti Monsterism is quite likely to become the Creation Education Sensation that sweeps the Nation.

Children everywhere will realize the elegant explanatory power of Flying Spaghetti Monsterism. They will undoubtedly see Intelligent Design and other creation myths as the frauds that they are. This is simply an unavoidable outcome of the logical link between pirates and mathematics which is as follows:

Mathematics is the language of the Universe, and the Flying Spaghetti Monster looks favorably upon pirates. Now, every school kid knows, and many adults have forgotten, that a pirate’s favorite subject to study in school is nothing other than…AAAARRRRR-ithmetic!

Coincidence? I think not.“
–Gregory Sword, Ph.D

“It occurred to me, while enjoying a carb-tastic bowl of Southeast Asian noodles [note that most of the world’s remaining pirates are from this region], that the real-world academic support for Intelligent Design (non-Christian-think-tank) is very slim — really just two guys. Just looking through your site, it is clear that Flying Spaghetti Monsterism has significantly greater support among the academic community, leaving any school board with little reason to preference the teaching of ID in schools. Certainly, it seems clear that Pastafarianism has at very least the same amount of supporting evidence as Intelligent Design, (as does, unfortunately, my wife’s heretical belief in an all-knowing Pizza Squid which, though it can not be dismissed on the basis of available evidence, is clearly wrong.)

Yet it was also revealed to me, by the noodly touch of our divine-alicious creator, that His whimsical deception runs deeper than just faking the fossil record or manipulating the half-life of carbon to screw with paleontologists. No, in addition to falsifying all observable evidence itself, I believe he created the very concepts of reason and logic as an hilarious joke at the expense of those who deny His almighty meatyness. The very tools with which we crudely attempt to discern fact from fiction in the world around us — the Scientific Method itself — are clever tricks meant to trick the unfaithful into lives of frustration and bewilderment. It is only when one denounces logic and reason themselves that the saucy veil is lifted, and the noodly Truth is made plain.“
–G.S. Barkin, Ph.D, Asst. Professor of Anthropology

“FSM is as good a set of beliefs as any religion. It belongs with ID, creationism, and all other religious beliefs in a comparative religion class. These theories to not try to answer scientific questions. Science asks: what is happening and how is it happening. Science is a process by which we observe and try to understand how things work; theories in science are based on evidence and empirical data. Science does not try to answer anything about who or what made the universe the way it is. Religion, on the other hand, is all about who created the universe and why the universe is the way it is.

FSM is a perfectly valid set of religious tenets and we should respect the beliefs of all Pastafarians and we should respect the religion beliefs of all people. However, the study of religion does not belong in science class.“
–Alison Bernstein

“The first bottle of Lambrusco I chugged in High School some 30 years ago washed my full immersion baptism into the Baptist faith away. The second bottle I chugged that night resulted in a pasta “vision” that, sadly, I was too blind and covered in noodles to understand. Now, after a long career as a Biologist and educator, I see the light. If you form a curriculum committee, keep me in mind.“
–Jeff Young, Ph.D.

“I’m writing to add my support to your effort to get FSM acceptance in the Kansas science curriculum equal to that given to another religious belief, intelligent design. As a molecular biologist who was raised and attended public school in Kansas, I think I have a fairly good understanding of both evolutionary theory and creationist conjecture.

While I am still learning about FSM and am by no means an expert, my current assessment is that FSM is equally, if not more, scientifically valid as any presentation of ID I have seen to date. To allow Kansas science teachers to present one but not the other to their students is bald-faced religious discrimination, and should not be tolerated.

Of course, the whole situation makes me very sad for the students going through the state’s school system now; I fear that people like me, who got a good science education in a “Blue” state and went on to a career in science, will only become more rare, and the environment in such places will spin
into complete scientific illiteracy. I’m happy to support your quest to make as much of a difference in this as you can. Thanks again,“
— Craig Behnke, Ph.D.

Continue to Academic Endorsements – page 4

“My friend and I noticed your plea for endorsements from individuals who share both an academic background and faith in the FSM. I’m an academic, but not a scientist, while he is a scientist, but not an academic. We both, however, feel strongly that denying children an education regarding what we know to be the true, noodly nature of the universe is a travesty of human progress. It is apparent to my friend that, from a scientific perspective, no other explanation of existence is conceivable. And he converted to FSMism from atheism. It is apparent to me, as an educator, that to not teach this truth alongside other “theories” of our universe’s creation will cause irreparable harm to our children, escalating to the point at which an entire generation will be ignorant to the noodly appendage operating all around them, inevitably plunging the world and all those upon it into a new dark age. Thank you, Bobby Henderson, for offering an alternative to that horrible fate to which the Kansas State Board of Education would subject our society. Thank you, Bobby Henderson, for saving the world.”
— Matthew L. Scully, aerospace engineer
— Daniel M. Gallagher, M.A., educator

“If intelligent design (ID) is based on science, not faith, then it should fulfill the same criteria as any other scientific theory. One of the most important of these is Occam’s Razor, the principle that the best explanation for a given phenomenon is the one which is simplest, or to put it another way, raises the least new questions. Most ID theories fail the test of Occam’s Razor, because they do not define what entity is doing the designing, or they imply that some sort of god is responsible, which raises the question of whether this god actually exists. However, Flying Spaghetti Monsterism explains clearly who the intelligent designer is, and furthermore, unlike the case for god, there is ample experimental proof that spaghetti does actually exist. I therefore recommend that if ID is to be taught in schools, it should be made clear to students that FSM is by far the most plausible of the many competing ID theories. RAmen.“
— S. Bilson-Thompson, PhD (Australia)

“I applaud Mr. Henderson for finally coming forward with a public acknowledgement of our fine religion. Many of you doubt our sincerity and legitimacy and many of you are often unaware of your inadvertant worship. Our most reverend of hymns, “On Top of Spaghetti” is ritualistucally sung by over 75% of the youth of America. Most of these children willingly take of the sacraments of spaghettios. Look into their eyes and you will see the truth. Many have been turned from the true way but He is willing to bring them back into His noodly embrace. As a Doctrate of Comparative Religions, I find it appauling that a small-minded minority is promoting their theories over older more proven scientific principals. May He forgive you for your insolance.“
— Gwendolynn Sue Daniels, PhD.

“As an orientalist trained in anthropology, I can assure you that the Flying Spaghetti Monster-theory is by no means ridiculous. It is, in fact, as solid as Genesis, the Aztec legends or Far Eastern stories about the creation of the world, and it is not more absurd.

It’s important that this’ll be included in the upcoming new school curriculum – the Flying Spaghetti Monster theory could well incite people to think about the discrepancies of other models. I am surprised people can even think of advocating ID – how will we raise the next generations’ scientists without any basical knowledge of facts and theories? Your demand to include the Flying Spaghetti Monster in school curricula is reasonable, not insulting and completely legitimate. FSM-ism would do no harm, and be a tasty alternative for fanatic Christianism.“
— Simon Harrison Chen, Lic. (London, UK)

“Thank you for enlightening the world about the true creator of the universe and everything in it. As a person with a doctorate in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry from Yale University (1974) and, thus, a better than average understanding of evolution and Darwinism, I would like to endorse, wholeheartedly, your efforts to get schools to include the REAL truth about ID and about the intelligent designer, none other than the FSM, when they teach ID in their science classes. RAMEN, “
–Ann M. KÃ¶rner Ph.D.

“I am not only a Ph.D. holder and mathematics professor, but also a practicing Hindu, long time Christian, devotee of FSM, and wine connoiseur, but also a part – time crab pot pirate practicing off Vashon Island, WA., primarily in July.

I can attest that since I have begun my work there the mean temperature has declined most pleasantly.”
–Roy Smith Ph.D

“As a biodiversity researcher, it has long been clear to me that there must have been something transcending mere variation, heritability, time and differential survival behind all these different sorts of animals and plants – why this ridiculous redundancy? But your revelation of a noodly appendage guiding all things has supplied the missing recipe for truly understanding this interwoven chaos of diversity. What could be plainer, once one has gazed on one of His manifestations, gilded with ground Parmesan, bathed in the blood of tomatoes, hallowed with the incense of basil and oregano, than the conclusion that only a transcendent being such as He could have conceived of the profoundly tangled connections that are revealed by researches into ecology and evolution. A personal relationship with Pasta should not be an option – it should be mandated, and be available on special Friday and Saturday nights.“ –Dr Mark Hutchinson (Adelaide, South Australia)

“As geneticist, my personal belief in the creator of everything was so far, that he resembles a pink invisible flying rabbit circling the earth just opposite the sun, and soundlessly squeaking “42”. In consequence, this creature is undetectable even by the most advanced human techniques. Furthermore, the ability of being pink and invisible at the same time provides proof for real allmightyness. However, Pastafarianism seems to be much more substantiated, and is not violating Occam’s razor (see comment of S. Bilson-Thompson), and follows pure philosophical logic, as colleague Brian D. Rabern has pointed out previously. Therefore, I am sure that the members of the Kansas Board of Education, who gave logic a particular importance, will honor these undisputable facts by including FSM in their curriculum, thereby setting highest educational standards also for non-US countries. – Additionally, the invisible pink rabbit hypothesis might be discussed if there could be some time spared in the pupil’s schedule. RAmen “ –Jobst Meyer, PhD, Professor of Behavioral Genetics

“Just to add my endorsement of Pastafarianism as a nutritious and delicious alternative to ID and other forms of creationism. While I myself would prefer to keep all such religious views out of the classroom, if I am forced to teach one as an alternative to evolution, I will certainly choose Pastafarianism.“
–Gerard S. Harbison, Professor of Chemistry, UNL, Lincoln, Nebraska

“If intelligent design (one of my favourite oxymorons after military intelligence and friendly fire) is to be taught in biology lessons, then such crossover of subjects should be expanded! Haiku should be taught in motor mechanics, the making of dovetail joints should be taught in mathematics and cell structure and function in French classes. All of this is as equally logical as the teaching of things written down in a book by Middle Eastern asylum seekers in North Africa thousands of years ago in Biology.

Until today when I read your site I was an unworthy atheist who believed in nothing but reason and evidence based theory but now I understand that this was now just part of the FSMâ€™s plan for me! I now pledge my research from this day hence to understanding the deeper mysteries of the FSMâ€™s creation.“
— SiÃ´n R.Wall PhD, Cardiff, Wales

“As a regular contributor to the scientific literature in the area of Industrial and Organizational Psychology and Associate Editor of one of the top 10 journals in the field, it seems that many of the most important contributions to science involve unification of seemingly discrepant theoretical positions and bodies of data into larger, more unified â€œBig Pictureâ€ theories. We have witnessed this kind of scientific progress in physics for decades and now we are faced with similar promising prospects of an integrative perspective that links biology, metaphysics, and the culinary arts into one overarching theory of how everything got to be the way it is. The theory of evolution (the biological contribution) is a widely accepted and scientifically grounded explanation of the Earthâ€™s current biodiversity, yet it falls short of an explanation of how everything got started in the first place. Intelligent Design (ID, the metaphysical contribution) argues convincingly that things are just too complicated for things to have started themselves and effectively argues that, therefore, there must have been a designer. Unfortunately, ID falls sadly short of identifying the designer him- or herself. The Theory of Flying Spaghetti Monsterism (the Pastafarian contribution from the culinary arts) presents a very convincing and parsimonious account of the identity and nature of the Intelligent Designer himself and, I think, creates an exciting potential for a Unified Theory of It All. Needless to say, any public school curriculum would be negligently incomplete and shamelessly biased if it did not present a fair and balanced treatment of the three intellectual pillars represented by Evolution, Intelligent Design, and Flying Spaghetti Monsterism.”
— Charles E. Lance, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology

“I wish to thank you for opening my eyes (and for making my mouth water). I have already referred to our leader the FSM in both my classes this quarter–Theories of Crime and Deviance & Capital Punishment–as the role of religion (not the roll of garlic) is paramount in explaining crime and punishment. I look forward to further developments in the liturgy in time for my Law & Society course (not the antipasto course). I wish to alert you to today’s class discussion, we we briefly considered both the FSM and yesterday’s article in the Journal of Religion and Society. There appears to be a strong direct correlation between a nation’s belief in “A Creator” and very high levels of social pathologies. Either belief in a creator is dangerous to a society’s health, or we have just been following false creators. Therefore, it is even more crucial to teach Pastafarianism along w/ ID. The ramifications reach all the way to the Social Problem of Order, not just the elimination of doctors from Kansas, Dover PA, & Cobb County GA.”
–Tom Durkin, PhD

“As a life-long subscriber to the scientific method, I find myself astonished at your succinctly unifying theory of the origins of matter and life in the Universe. I find myself unable to express the depths of my admiration and beg to offer you my accolades for your unequaled contribution to the field of general knowledge. That which eluded the greatest minds of humanity, the grand unifying theory of _everything_, is now laid bare for all to acknowledge; its brilliant simplicity far surpassing the inelegance of the Standard Model, the tacked-on nature of the Cosmological Constant, the inobsevability of M-branes and the obviousness of Quantum Gravity. It is perfectly derivable that the FSM is the duality of, on one hand, the driving force behind the imaginary-to-real temporal transition (falsely referred to as the Big Bang), and on the other hand, the impetus behind the universal entropy reduction (falsely referred to as Evolution).

It is my sincere hope however, that you may acknowledge that the images of Him, are mere projections onto our consciousness of the rapturous and divine cross-dimensional entity that He must represent. It is highly unlikely, and strikes this writer as somewhat jejune that His true image would be not dissimilar to that of a $5.95 lunch special at Belindaâ€™s.

Thank you for restoring one manâ€™s faith in science, organized religion and the general superiority of the Italian cuisine in a single afternoon.”
— Dmitry Kaplan, PhD

“I am a university researcher and lecturer in Sweden, which is a frighteningly secularised society. The need for the restoration of faith is particularly acute here. Amongst the religious minority, many cling to the exultant euphoria and collective catharses of pentacostal ritual. This fulfils a important need in this country’s emotionally and socially inhibited society. Many others uphold the imported religions of their immigrant backgrounds, which adds welcome variation to the palette of human beliefs and dogma. In Sweden there are strong inverse statistical correlations between drug abuse, youth delinquency and crime when plotted against the number of church goers. It is common for students to point out what to them are an obvious causal effects when presented with such data. I find myself standing before a clawing need for a faith based, postconstructive curriculum as an alternative to the secular and scientific programmes that totally dominate this countries universities.

The Kansas School Board’s embracing of the intelligent design constitutes a step into the abyss of rhetorical fallacy, a step that I believe would be embraced by a the majority of pupils if impressed upon them in a sufficiently charismatic and ebullient fashion. It seems to me though that the board have overestimated the abilities of science teachers to dupe and cajole pupils into accepting the content of their curriculum, and that intelligent design would more efficiently be forced on innocent minds through the use of professional sales personal, spin doctors, Hollywood writers, politicians or priests.

I myself have looked into a number of belief systems in an attempt to find a candidate for fulfilling studentsâ€™ clawing need for simple answers that explain the complexity of the world. I find none as delightfully absurd and blatantly simplistic as Pastafarianism. It is clear that this is what I shall be teaching my students when they draw simplistic, uncritical, fact denying, authoritarian, dogmatic, or contradictory conclusions from incomplete knowledge. Pastafarianism beautifully illustrates how easily and arbitrarily specious truth can be constructed and it is the perfect complement to the stolid scientific approach.

Until such time as a new era of human enlightenment under a new prophet transfixes my attention, Pastafarianism will become a lecture hall word — a word through which I can offer those clawing students the sense of security and faith in the ridiculous that they need in order to revert to the path of rationality, uncertainty and the systematic search for truth.

To this end, there is also a place in the scientific curriculum for intelligent design, itâ€™s just that Pastafarianism fulfils that role so much better.”
–Guy Davies Ph.D. Computer Science. Royal Institute of Technology

My motto will be “Pirates against global warming”

“Registered Nurses are trained to be respectful and supportive of their patients’ various cultural and religious beliefs and practices. In my practice, I care for the elderly, typically in the few remaining days of their lives. I have seen, first hand, everything from Voodoo death rituals to the classic Catholic prayer hoping for a miracle. I may well offend ALL faiths, but let me speak of religious diversity and miracles.

I know this is not scientific, but I can conclude, based upon massive first hand anecdotal evidence, that these many religions and faiths, despite their seemingly different dogmas, all worship the same God. If all of humanity could see my patients fully exercising their faiths as I have, it would lead them to that same conclusion, even though it is only based on “wimpy” anecdotal evidence, and not on a double-blind clinical trial that would satisfy scientific rigor. On the topic of miracles, any soccer mom who had to feed the whole team will tell you, Jesus could not have fed the masses with a single fish. It makes more sense that he accomplished that miracle with a giant, steaming bowl of spaghetti. I’ll bet if we examine other miracles, we will often find a noodly appendage invoking His influence.

So, I wholeheartedly support the concept of equal time for all divine theories in the classroom, especially FSMism. If we, as a species, could finally realize that all forms of God are one and the same God, perhaps religious wars would end, and we could truly love one another as most religions indicate. Your demand for equal presentation of FSMism in schools appears, on the surface, to be self serving for Pastafarians. However, you are really helping mankind in ways you may not be aware of.

Andrew D Pohlman, RN”

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