SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Pastimes : Let's Talk About Our Feelings!!!
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
To: epicure who wrote (41079)6/20/1999 5:36:00 PM
From: Chuzzlewit  Read Replies (2) of 108807
 
X, while I agree with you for the most part, I must take exception to your comments about evolution.

Evolution is a fact, just as gravity is a fact. Evolution has been observed repeatedly in nature and in the laboratory. The theoretical portion of evolution is the explanation. But even here there is a semantic problem because there is a gulf of difference between 'theory' as used by the layman and 'theory' used by scientists. Layman generally equate theory with something hypothetical or speculative, while scientists use it to connote a body of thought that is not only supported by overwhelming evidence, but also capable of generating testable predictions which make the theory deniable. In short, it is the strongest statement a scientist will make concerning the explanation of phenomena.

In that context, the religionist who posits the existence of God is not proposing a theory because there is no testable way that the theory can be disproved.

Here is just one example of a specific prediction that emerged from the theory of evolution. Darwinian evolution required (and predicted) that a mutable genetic structure existed. This prediction was made before the existence of the gene was discovered.

Here is another example of a prediction: Darwinian evolutionary theory requires the existence of random, pre-adaptive mutations -- genetic changes in the gene pool that predate their adaptive advantage. For example, Darwinian evolution would require the presence of DDT resistance in organisms prior to their exposure to the toxin -- rather than as a result of exposure to the toxin. This is precisely what was found.

Had these specific predictions not been met the theory would have been discarded. That is why science is continually probing the boundaries of theory.

TTFN,
CTC
Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  

HomeMailHotSubjectMarksPeopleMarksKeepersSettings
Terms Of UseContact UsCopyright/IP PolicyPrivacy PolicyAbout UsFAQAdvertise on SI
© 2025 Knight Sac Media.  Data provided by Twelve Data, Alpha Vantage, and CityFALCON News