the theory of evolution consists of observations, models, evidence such as fossil records, embryological similarities between different species, DNA
similarities (probably THE strongest evidence supporting evolution), micro-evolution observed in the labs, vestigial organ evidence, etc. there is a
big difference of the use of the word "theory" in science and common usage. In common daily life, we use the word theory to refer to a guess, a
hypothesis, a shot-in-the-dark idea. In science, the word theory "is an explanation or model based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning,
especially one that has been tested and confirmed as a general principle helping to explain and predict natural phenomena."
now let's define evolution.biological evolution "simply put, is descent with modification. This definition encompasses small-scale evolution and
large-scale evolution ."
for a more complete definition check this link :evolution.berkeley.edu...
Now let's debunk a few of the things said by Jon Gary Williams. He said that there is no evidence of the change from reptile to mammal. this is in
fact not true. in this link: cambrian.tripod.com...
there is ample evidence of "transitional" species from one group to the next.
Also, it is important to be aware that what Jon Gary was having problems with is not evolution itself, but
]. taxonomy separates species in
different groups, but this is highly subjective, for if we humans lived several millions years ago our taxonomy would have been completely
Now the spiders. the spider does not have "semi-evolved" organs-it's organs are good enough for the survival of this species. In fact, there
actually is evidence that spiders were also subject to evolution.
Here is some interesting info about the bees. They in fact appeared before the flowers they pollinate:
Also, there are plant fossils that demonstrate plant evolution; a little fact that apparently was left out.
I know it's wikipedia and not viewed very well by many of you, but check the sources offered
in the site if in doubt.
Evolution is the strongest supported theory of biology. the reason evolution is "pushed" into the school system is because without it many of our
sciences such as paleontology, medicine, taxonomy, psychology, botany, among other fields in the medical sciences and biological sciences wouldn't
make sense or exist.
in case more information is needed to have a better grasp of evolution, just check this: www.pbs.org...
also, just to add, it is somewhat misleading to declare something a "transitional species", because every species that exists now IS a transitional
even with all the evidence pointing to evolution being true, the only question one should have is exactly how the process works, because that
evolution has occurred is a well-established FACT in the scientific community.
[edit on 3-10-2009 by newworld]