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Diekan wrote:Evolution, by definition, is the acquisition of advantageous phenotypic characteristics brought on through genomic mutations. In other words, when an organism displays a new advantageous physical characteristic that is brought about through a mutation of a particular gene, operon, whatever, and is successufly passed down from generation to generation... it may be construed as having evolved.
Let me give a very light example of the theory of evolution: Many of you are well aware of the growing concern of several antibiotic resistant bacteria strains. This may be considered a form of evolution, on a rather elementary level. Let's say we have bacteria X, which has been implicated in causing disease in humans. So, after a little research we find that bacteria X is susceptible to penicillin and as such our doctors start prescribing the antibiotic to patients who test positive for the presence the bug. For a while it proves effective and will keep the population of whatever bacteria (not just bug X) might be susceptible to its potency, however, SOME of the bacteria will always survive. Eventually, a mutation will occur within the bacteria's genome that will alter its physical characteristics in such a way that the antibiotic will have no effect.
Now, even though most people would consider it the “same” bacteria, in actuality it is not. It HAS changed. It is no longer the same strain... in short it has “evolved” to now be resistant. This is an example of an advantageous phenotypic characteristic brought on through genomic mutation. A mutation that is successfully passed down from generation to generation.
Evolution IS a theory, but it's a theory supported by a great deal of solid observations. More so than Creationism that is grounded solely in faith – with no empirical data to support it, what-so-ever.
I just don't understand why we can't have both. Whether or not we are being watched by a creator is a matter of faith based opinion. If we cannot prove it, then why is it so hard to accept that perhaps such a creator designed the inhabitants of this world to evolve? Because the bible didn't say so? I don't need to point out that the bible has been written and rewritten again and again by the very fallible hand of man. Who really knows what the original words of the bible were?
Anyway, with out digressing further – you cannot look at the data combined with its definition and say that the theory of evolution is lacking of any real credibility.
I can write a novel on this subject, but right now it's 12:30 in the morning – and I have porn to look at.
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