Issue: Evolution

1.07: Darwin and the Theory of Evolution

1.07: Darwin and the Theory of Evolution

Posted by | May 21, 2023 | |

Science has proved to be a highly successful way of finding out how things work, and scientific theory is central to the practice of science. When Charles Darwin first published the theory of ‘natural selection’ in 1859, there were many gaps in the evidence to support it. In more than 160 years since then evidence from genetics, medical science and ecology have all substantiated the theory, so that an eminent biologist could claim that “nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution.”

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Darwin’s Legacy

Darwin’s Legacy

Posted by | May 20, 2023 | |

This article provides a comprehensive overview of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, its development, and its profound implications. Beginning with the state of knowledge before Darwin and his transformative journey aboard the HMS Beagle, it chronicles the development of Darwin’s revolutionary ideas. The article delves into the theory itself, its integration with genetics in the modern synthesis, and its evidence in various fields like the fossil record, population genetics, and comparative anatomy. It also addresses the philosophical and theological implications of the theory, its portrayal and misconceptions in popular culture, and the importance of accurate communication and education. Conclusively, it asserts the ongoing relevance of Darwin’s theory in shaping our understanding of the biological world, our place within it, and our approach to life’s profound questions.

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Science, Philosophy & Spirituality – Season 1

Science, Philosophy & Spirituality – Season 1

Posted by | Jul 1, 2022 |

An integrated review of what science, philosophy and spirituality contribute to our understanding and experience of the world today.
We each have a unique ‘worldview’ that is shaped by our knowledge, experiences and our beliefs. This course will provide the opportunity to examine (and possibly expand) that worldview in the light of modern scientific discoveries, critical questions posed by philosophers, and diverse beliefs revealed through spiritual traditions. It will be of particular interest to people who care about the lasting damage that humanity is causing to our home planet, and who are seeking to understand what resources the fields of science, philosophy and spirituality can offer

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The Enigma of Reason: A New Theory of Human Understanding

The Enigma of Reason: A New Theory of Human Understanding

Posted by | Mar 1, 2021 | |

‘Mercier and Sperber offer a surprising and powerful response to the new orthodoxy propounded by Kahneman and Tversky … arguing that the supposed flaws of hot, fast, automatic thinking are actually design features which work remarkably well’ Julian Baggini

Reason, we are told, is what makes us human, the source of our knowledge and wisdom. But, if reason is so useful, why didn’t it also evolve in other animals? If it is that reliable, why do we produce so much thoroughly reasoned nonsense?

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