2007-12-04 06:51:47 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
I believe evolution is true. I don't think Darwin had all the details completely, precisely correct, but the core idea is correct.
2007-12-04 06:59:24 · answer #1 · answered by mousymite 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It's not a matter of belief. Most reputable research supports the theory of evolution (which has been changed significantly since Darwin proposed the theory of Natural Selection).
As with anything, if real evidence comes up that the theory of evolution isn't sound, I'll revise my view. It will have to stand up to the same standards as the evidence for evolution, mainly:
1) It is transparent. The experiments, observations, sources, etc. have to stand up to scrutiny. Some guy who says "I have evidence, but you can't see it" doesn't count (this is actually a common excuse among those arguing for intelligent design).
2) It follows good scientific protocol. If it's experimental, then the controls have to be good, and it needs to be reproducible. If it is an examination of existing fossils, then the sources need to be confirmed, dated, and analyzed according to rigorous standards and by qualified and trained professionals (scientists trained in paleontology, genetics, etc. - many ID claims come from mathematicians, electrical engineers, physicists, etc, who have insufficient biological education to make any sort of credible analysis).
3) The findings need to be peer reviewed in a reputable journal. Publications put out by the organization that is conducting the research don't count. Publications put out by biased sources, such as Creation Ex Nihilo don't count.
4) The arguments need to make sense logically. They can't consist of "This fossil doesn't make sense, so we were obviously created by an intelligent force." Mainly because A) one fossil is not a representative sample and B) it is a false dichotomy (evolution is in doubt, so we must have been created).
5) The evidence must be real. Finding a few gaps in the theory does not invalidate the theory, it just shows where more research needs to be done. Made up arguments don't count (the "Darwin recanted" lie). Ad hominem attacks against researchers don't count. Also, ancient texts don't count as evidence. You can choose for yourself whether or not to believe in the Bible, but you can't prove the involvement of God any more than science can disprove it. Therefore the two should stay well away (in the realm of scientific argument), and we must stick to what we can observe (it's the same reason you go to the hospital instead of church when you're sick).
These rules seem harsh, but they are the same standards to which all science is (and must be) held. It is difficult for non-scientists to understand, but it is a world of intense criticism, relentless scrutiny, and constant revision. The theory of evolution has itself been revised, and I'm certain that it will be many times in the future as more evidence is uncovered. Perhaps the theory will be very similar to what it is today, maybe not, that's just the way science works.
As it stands, though, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the theory of evolution.
2007-12-04 07:23:37 · answer #2 · answered by andymanec 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
One piece of information.
In common usage the word 'theory' is used to mean a vague and unclear idea.
In Science, the word 'Theory' means something quite different.
It means a mass of evidence and supporting research, widely accepted over a long period of time, and is about as solid a piece of explanation for natural phenomena, that it is possible to get.
2007-12-04 07:21:19 · answer #3 · answered by jack.marlinspike 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It is a reasonable theory and does not in any way negate belief in God or creationism. I prefer it to the "Big Bang theory".
2007-12-04 06:57:42 · answer #4 · answered by botsibi_2000 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely. It will probably continue to be refined (or should I say it will continue to evolve?) over time as new information comes to light, but I'm confident that it's fundamentally true.
2007-12-04 06:58:35 · answer #5 · answered by edthespartan 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yes.
2007-12-04 06:56:00 · answer #6 · answered by Mark S, JPAA 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes.
2007-12-04 06:54:57 · answer #7 · answered by suliman 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes... to deny scientific fact is only for conservative christians
2007-12-04 06:58:56 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes.
I also believe in gravitation. Did you know that gravitation works whether or not you believe in it?
2007-12-04 06:59:30 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
No, if it were true why have we not see any evolution. three arms sure would be nice. there is no eviendents for evolution. if you have some please share them with me.
2007-12-04 07:07:43 · answer #10 · answered by robby c 2 · 1⤊ 5⤋