Here are some frequently made claims evolution followed by why
they are false.
Evolution claims that humans are descended from monkeys
While it is true that humans are
somewhat closely related to modern apes, it is not true that we are “evolved from
dang-dirty monkeys.” The truth is that humans share a common ancestor with monkeys; it is
believed that this ancestor existed between 5 and 8 million years ago. At some
point in time, this ancestor’s species evolved into two separate lineages.
So, to provide an analogy, monkeys
are more like our cousins than our parents.
Evolution is entirely random
Evolution is the result of natural
selection; this means that organisms are more likely to pass on dominant gene
traits than recessive gene traits.
Now, to clarify—natural selection
does not determine dominance of genes directly
based on interactions with the environment. What happens is very simple—
Organisms with “dominant” genes
survive.
Organisms with “recessive” genes do
not survive.
Science!
Evolution is just a theory
Yes, evolution is classified as a
scientific theory—this doesn’t mean that it has not been proven. It is it is
important for one to note the difference between the scientific definition of
theory and the contemporary definition of theory.
Contemporary
definition of theory: A supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something,
esp. one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained.
Scientific definition
of theory: A scientific explanation of an observed phenomenon.
The theory of intelligent design is as feasible a theory
as evolution
This is false; if not for many
reasons, then for one:
Evolution is backed by empirical
evidence.
Intelligent is not backed by
empirical evidence.
More science!
Citations
Harding, Ken. (1999). But
it's "just a theory!". Retrieved from http://www.evolution.mbdojo.com/theory.html
PBS. (C 2001). Evolution:
frequently asked questions. Retrieved from http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/library/faq/cat02.html