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>Because the theory of evolution contradicts a lot of Christian presumptions about humankind's importance in the grand scheme of things, it is a touchier subject than heliocentrism or the shape of the Earth. <
Ironically, evolution actually does not contradict any Christian presuppositions about humanity, in the sense of presuppositions that are basic to the Christian faith. Rather, it contradicts a lot of popular presumptions, some of which are prevalent among religious conservatives.
Evolution, properly restricted as a biological theory, is the best available description of the physical processes involved in going from abiotic precursors to the modern diversity of organisms, including humans. However, this tells us nothing about whether some deity might have particular plans involving some of these organisms, especially one who, like the God described in the Bible, seems to prefer working subtly and with the most unpromising material. (E.g., to found a nation, take one elderly infertile couple.) Thus, both atheists and antievolutionists are misrepresenting evolution when they claim it supports particular philosophical, religious, or moral views. If we clearly critique all misuses of it, we will have better credibility to be speaking as scientists.
Evolution does conflict with religions that claim that things are fundamentally cyclic, hence the Hare Krishna role in Mysterious Origins of Man, Forbidden Archaeology, and other propaganda that tries to put modern humans millions of years ago. The myriad evidence for evolution also clearly supports an ancient earth, and thus conflicts with those who insist on a literalistic reading of Genesis 1. However, such a reading of Genesis 1 has been questioned at least since Origen (a 3rd century A.D. Christian theologian), well before geology provided external evidence against such an interpretation.
Overall, evolution is largely irrelevant to Christianity. A few tangential connections might be made. For example, it suggests that selfishness and promiscuity are likely to be particularly popular temptations, but anyone who could not figure that out empirically is rather ignorant of humanity.
Dr. David Campbell
Old Seashells
University of Alabama
Biodiversity & Systematics
Dept. Biological Sciences
Box 870345
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0345 USA
bivalve@mail.davidson.alumlink.com
That is Uncle Joe, taken in the masonic regalia of a Grand Exalted Periwinkle of the Mystic Order of Whelks-P.G. Wodehouse, Romance at Droitgate Spa
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