• Evolution is the theory first proposed by Charles Darwin that says a change in a population's inherited traits occurs through successive generations, with natural selection ensuring that traits which enhance survival become more common. In March 2009, Texas became one of many states that have challenged the teaching of evolution in public schools without providing information on alternative theories such as Intelligent Design. The Texas Board of Education will vote on specific amendments that could change the way textbooks are worded to comply with the educational code.CNN: Science standards challenging evolution... (March 25, 2009)

• Fast Facts

  1. First proposed by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace
  2. 1859: On The Origin of Species published
  3. 1871: The Descent of Man published
  4. Gregor Mendel's work showed how traits are passed from generation to generation
  5. Evolutionary skeptics are often associated with religious fundamentalists and use creationism or intelligent design as the basis for human developmentNPR: Doubting Darwin: Debate Over The Mind's Evolution (February 20, 2009)
  6. Recent studies on the brain have prompted more scientists to reject Darwin's theory of evolutionNPR: Doubting Darwin: Debate Over The Mind's Evolution (February 20, 2009)

• Evolution and the Brain

  Recent studies on the brain have caused some scientists to take part in a heated debate over the validity of evolution. Each side, prompted by different interpretations of data involving consciousness and how it relates to the brain vs. the mind, began dueling blogs at the end of 2008. One side is spearheaded by a neuroscientist, while the other is delegated by a neurosurgeon, both remaining steadfast in their opposing views.NPR: Doubting Darwin: Debate Over The Mind's Evolution (February 20, 2009)

• Background

  The theory was first proposed by Charles Darwin in his 1859 book On the Origin of Species. Darwin developed his theory by traveling to the Galapagos Islands and observing the various breeds of finches. The theory proposes that man is the descendant of great apes and is most closely related to the chimpanzee. The theory of evolution is accepted by the majority in the scientific community and provides the basis for modern biology.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  Charles Darwin | Intelligent Design | Galapagos Islands | Genetics | Scopes Trial | Geological Periods | Evolution Speeding Up | Plate Tectonics | PZ Myers | Darwin Awards | Bush Bible | Pink Iguana | How to Become a Marine Biologist

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