As
the debate about evolution continues, I think it’s
important we realize that the theory of evolution
is just that: a theory.
A
theory is a supposition of facts based upon many
separate facts and logic. As such it is differentiated
from a hypothesis, which is merely a supposition
based upon a very limited number
of facts. A simple comparison might be: theory equals
“probably” and hypothesis equals “what if?”
Some
of the arguments advanced by the anti‑evolutionists
like, “why are there still apes here
if man is descended from apes?” don’t really hold
up as new data is discovered. It’s a bit
like asking why are there parrots, sparrows, emus
and chickens, isn’t it?
There
is plenty of evidence to show that different branches
have evolved in different ways.
Darwin
may not have been totally correct, but there is
an ever increasing amount of data to suggest
that he was on the right track.
As
for creationism, it cannot be called a theory as
there is really no evidence to support this story
book hypothesis. Other than some writings from people
who essentially invented the idea
of creationism, what is there? The answer is faith,
and faith is a powerful force. Witness some of your
recent letters that have poor Terry Alexander burning
in Hell merely because he
chooses to give more credence to the theory than
to a hypothesis with more evidence than if it were
a fairy tale.
Evolution
may not be exactly what put us here. However, there
is no reason to believe that creationism
is the answer either, unless one accepts it on the
blind faith required by organized religions
everywhere. If you are willing to accept the teachings
of your religion on blind faith, then do not condemn
people of other religions for doing the same thing.
A jihad by any other name, or in any other form,
is still a jihad.
Me,
I’ll take facts and logic every time.
David
Williams
Phoenix
