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.
Evolution is considered a scientific fact in the science community. An example of current day evolution is the formation of disease resistant bacteria.
Creationism and Intelligent Design
In March 2009, Texas became one of a few states that have challenged the teaching of evolution in public schools without providing information on religious-based teachings such as Intelligent Design. Intelligent Design proposes that a supreme being created life, designing it through wisdom and intelligence.
Is that why people die daily from horrible sicknesses like viral infections and cancer - because there was a whole lot of intelligence that went into the process?
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 scientific community and provides a basis for modern biology.
Central Figures
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
First proposed by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace
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1859
On The Origin of Species published
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1871
The Descent of Man published
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Fact:
Gregor Mendel's work showed how traits are passed from generation to generation
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Fact:
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)
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Fact:
Evolution is considered fact by the scientific community.
