Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
8. Assume for the sake of argument that evolution is the invention of a supernatu-
ral agent, rather than a natural process. From your knowledge of how evolution
works, what might you deduce about the character of that agent?
9. Compare the different lines of evidence for evolution outlined in Chapter 4.
Which do you regard as the strongest evidence and which the weakest? Can
you think of any other ways in which the theory of evolution could be tested?
10. Suppose that mutation is not random, but directed to create useful adaptations.
From your knowledge of how the genetic code is used to make proteins, how
might you explain such a hypothetical process of directed mutation, without
invoking supernatural agents?
11. Some religious scientists argue that the 'laws of nature' have been created by
a supernatural agent, while atheistic scientists point out that natural laws, by
definition, have only natural causes. Which of these positions makes more sense
to you? Explain why.
12. Suppose that no evidence has been found to support the idea of evolution. Given
that both mutation and natural selection are observable facts, how might you
explain this absence?