Why Evolution Is True, Essay Example

Introduction

Evolution is a complex phenomenon that has been controversial throughout history. This concept has scientific roots, although there are also numerous religious connotations within its framework, many of which have led to other beliefs that attempt to disprove or refute evolution in different ways. Jerry Coyne, the author of Why Evolution is True, possesses a strong scientific and biological background, thereby demonstrating his willingness to address this argument and the conflicts that challenge personal beliefs and expectations in this regard. Coyne’s background and experience in biology is highly influential in his beliefs and perceptions in regards to evolution and provide a significant basis for the content of his book. Evolution and its many complexities demonstrates the value of discussing these issues in relation to Coyne’s book. The following discussion will address the primary concepts associated with evolution as conveyed by Coyne. In addition, this discussion will consider some of the most important perspectives associated with evolution, such as its philosophical, sociological, and theological approaches that have mystified individuals for many centuries.

Analysis

Thomas Coyne depicts evolution from a Darwinian perspective, using key scientific principles in order to address how humans evolved from other living beings gradually over time (Coyne, 2009). The strong scientific evidence that exists in regards to evolution tells a unique story, known as natural selection (Coyne, 2009). Under these circumstances, many biological principles are at work, such as genetics and molecular biology, as key components in the formation of humans in their current form (Coyne, 2009). However, the biological interface that has led to evolutionary circumstances has been instrumental in the formation of humans under complex circumstances (Coyne, 2009). Furthermore, other actions are at work, such as geological and environmental change, both of which influence how humans have evolved (Coyne, 2009). The scientific principles behind evolution have facilitated a transition of early living forms to the complex intricacies of human beings as they are observed in the modern era (Coyne, 2009). These principles are significant because they demonstrate the relevance of specific variables that are combined to create different traits and characteristics that make all humans unique and distinct from each other (Coyne, 2009). The scientific explanations behind this concept are highly complex; however, there are considerable efforts made to explore these concepts and make them understandable through Coyne’s perspectives.

The unique perspectives that Coyne introduces are based upon his considerable advanced knowledge and experience in studying biological processes and evolution. These factors play a significant role in understanding how humans have evolved and the characteristics that make them distinct (Coyne, 2009). There are many unique perspectives regarding evolution, including those that refute and support the concepts explored in this book. However, from a scientific perspective, evidence tells a story that has transformed the manner in which life in different forms has evolved over time and continues to evolve in new ways (Coyne, 2009). The science behind evolution has mystified people for many generations; however, scientists such as Coyne argue that these principles make the difference in demonstrating that evolution explains how humans were derived (Coyne, 2009). However, others argue that evolution is not the appropriate discussion to have, as religious beliefs and persuasions dictate otherwise, as God created man without scientific interference. Perhaps what is most important in these opposing arguments is that both have merits because they reflect the capacity to understand how individuals perceive the creation of humans in different ways. These arguments must be explored in greater detail because they emphasize human values, but do not discount scientific approaches in any way.

Science in and of itself is a complex phenomenon that represents many activities that continue to be discovered in the 21^st Century. In spite of technological advancements and their impact on scientific discoveries, the basic arguments remain the same: science is based upon trial and error, as well as experimentation. Under these conditions, many ideas and concepts are possible and have a significant influence on human health, disease, aging, longevity, and wellbeing. Each of these factors may be attributed to evolution and genetic makeup. Genetics is perhaps the cornerstone of evolution and has been in existence well before it was discovered by scientists. Therefore, genetics plays a significant role in understanding evolution and the process of natural selection, as proposed by Charles Darwin. The genetic traits that are exhibited as individual characteristics contribute to natural selection because only the best and most useful traits are passed onto new generations, while other traits are removed from the equation. In this context, Coyne (2009) supports a greater understanding of the issues and challenges related to natural selection and its impact on human existence and the preservation of specific traits that have been passed down from generation to generation.

One of the most interesting key points that Coyne professes early in his book is as follows: “True, some change can occur very quickly. Populations of microbes have very short generations, some as brief as twenty minutes. This means that these species can undergo a lot of evolution in a short time, accounting for the depressingly rapid rise of drug resistance in disease-causing bacteria and viruses. And there are many examples of evolution known to occur within a human lifetime” (Coyne, 2009, p. 4). This statement is relevant to the discussion of evolution because it captures the level of diversity within different species and the ability of some species to evolve very quickly and to impact the world in different ways, such as drug-resistant viruses (Coyne, 2009). In this context, human development and sustainability is dependent on the actions of other species in many ways, thereby creating an environment in which humans respond to their surrounding environment and evolve accordingly. These elements are unique yet relevant to the arguments made by Coyne because evolution is indicative of environmental change and the ability of humans to adapt to their surroundings in an effective manner (Coyne, 2009). Adaptation is perhaps one of the key arguments of evolution because it conveys the necessity for humans to respond to change within their surroundings and to make sense of the new realities that prevail.

In some ways, evolution has contributed to the development of disease in its many forms, including cancer, infectious diseases, and diabetes, amongst others. When the human body responds to its surroundings, change is often required to adapt to the new conditions. Therefore, when environmental conditions and other circumstances occur, they often play a role in human adaptation. Cancer cells are in some forms mutations of healthy cells; therefore, humans have evolved in such a way that the response to these cells is highly variable and unique. The human response to disease, therefore, represents a challenge to existing conditions and the necessity to adapt to fight disease in different forms. When humans are unable to adapt to these conditions, simply put, they die. These changes are reflective of the concerns that many human beings face throughout their lives to adapt to their environments and to become less susceptible to disease and other conditions that are detrimental to human health. Therefore, in this regard, health is a critical component of evolution because positive health and wellbeing is dependent on a human body that is able to face different circumstances and adapt to conditions that may lead to unfavorable outcomes. When human health is compromised by disease, it creates a divide that is difficult to overcome without adapting to new circumstances that have occurred and have led to genetic variability.

Other factors besides disease have contributed to the biological process of evolution for human beings. Humans have also evolved in other ways to adapt to their environments, and at the same time, have developed characteristics to demonstrate these differences. Evolution has enabled a common denominator to develop into billions of individual human beings over time, each of which possesses highly unique characteristics, some of which have been passed down from higher generations, and others of which have emerged in response to the environment (Coyne, 2009). These elements have also led to the creation of countless species that have existed in the past or currently exist on Earth, many of whom cohabitate and reside under similar living conditions (Coyne, 2009). The concept of speciation is introduced in Coyne’s book as a means of understanding how living beings were divided into species based upon specific characteristics and attributes that have led to species differentiation (Coyne, 2009). These concepts demonstrate that evolution is highly advanced and individualistic on many levels. Different species possess different gene pools and characteristics, thereby distinguishing them from each other (Coyne, 2009). Furthermore, species that evolve from similar forms are often successful in different types of climates and environments, particularly since they are able to adapt to these conditions without extreme difficulty (Coyne, 2009).

The biological premise behind evolution is complex and intricate; therefore, it represents an opportunity to challenge and stimulate the mind to new levels. The evidence that Coyne presents in his book reflects the changes that humans have experienced through evolutionary means. Throughout history, biology has been established on the same basic premises; however, the expansion of knowledge and technology have led to new discoveries that address age-old questions, as well as other factors that contribute to the high degree of variability that exists today. The emergence of such techniques as gene therapy and manipulation did not exist many years ago; therefore, they represent an opportunity to convey the biological issues that are relevant and appropriate in human existence as it stands today. However, biology does not tell the entire story, as other factors play an important role in the story of evolution. For example, sociological concepts are contributors to evolution because the acceptance of human beings within a given group, family, or society are highly relevant in classifying individuals. However, sociological approaches are instrumental in these outcomes because classifications are indicative of evolution and the development of specificity to belong to a given species or group.

Sociology also represents a means of evaluating the human condition and the influence of belonging and emotion on evolution and existence. These experiences are a significant component of the human condition and have a significant impact on emotion and survival. The phrase “survival of the fittest” is generally applied to species in a biological context; however, this term also has sociological connotations because it influences how individuals interact and if they are strong enough to survive within groups. The ability to socialize and to communicate with others, as well as adapt to different social environments, are also key components in the process of evolution. From this perspective, evolution is not solely an event that is biological in nature, as it also involves the ability to live under different social conditions. If humans cannot communicate or align themselves with a specific group, they are excluded and are not selected for future events. This is a natural occurrence and individuals fall into and out of social groups on a regular basis. This approach to evolution conveys the reality of socialization and its impact on selecting individuals to be part of groups. Some individuals are able to socialize easily, while others find it difficult to communicate and to be part of a group. Therefore, these conditions are based upon specific characteristics and differences that individuals possess that are a product of their evolutionary histories.

In spite of the social impact of evolution on humans, theological perspectives often lead to much controversy and demonstrate the importance of religious values and beliefs in regards to evolution. Religious beliefs have often refuted basic biological concepts because the natural assumption is that God created man, not as part of a greater scientific plan. Therefore, it is important to distinguish the religious perspective from the biological, but to also consider that evolutionists believe humans were derived from other species (Prothero, 2009). It is necessary to consider the issues that are relevant with these arguments because they identify how religion has taught the perspective of creation in the Bible (Prothero, 2009). Nonetheless, biological evidence cannot be ignored and supports the following: “Many creationists would probably ignore evolution (along with the rest of biology) completely were it not for the claim that humans are related to the rest of the animal kingdom, and evolved from non-human ancestors” (Prothero, 2009). These elements are particularly challenging to compare because they are contradictory and are difficult to reconcile in one’s mind (Prothero, 2009). If the theory of creation actually took place, then it would be difficult to accept any form of evolution; however, creation does not seem realistic, given the formation of other animal species and living things throughout history (Prothero, 2009). Therefore, it is not surprising that many individuals support evolutionary beliefs because they possess a more practical approach to the emergence of living cells and beings. These elements possess considerable weight in biological circles because evolution is a scientific approach that has been given much consideration and merit in many societies. The contrast between the two concepts, however, are important because they convey the challenges of different beliefs regarding human and animal development and the unique nature of each species, which is difficult to explain from the perspective of a creationist due to the lack of understanding of genetic traits and characteristics.

In its simplest form, evolution could be broken down into DNA molecules, all of which combine in different forms within cells to create genetic codes and specificity. As a result, it is very difficult to perceive any other type of approach to human development other than evolution because this concept is practical and appropriate for the discussion of how human beings developed from the very beginning. Coyne’s arguments in his book support this basic belief and demonstrate that it is important to explore the depths of biology in order to explain how humans evolved and grew into the species that they are today (Coyne, 2009). In the process of these declarations, Coyne essentially refutes any religious perspectives regarding creationism because they simply do not fit with the facts and realities of DNA and genetic makeup (Coyne, 2009). These elements possess considerable weight and provide further support that DNA is the biological driving force behind all living things and represents the code that makes all living things unique and distinct from each other. These forces of nature are less than microscopic in size but demonstrate the importance of biology in signaling change and diversity within the animal and plant kingdoms (Coyne, 2009). Therefore, it is necessary to develop an understanding of DNA as the cornerstone for evolution and for human development (Coyne, 2009).

Coyne’s arguments strengthen existing beliefs regarding evolution and its role in the development of species and many types of living things. Within this context, it is observed that speciation and differentiation are critical to the meaning of evolution as it is now known, and therefore continues to have a significant impact on human differences (Coyne, 2009). The most common issues regarding evolution are integral to the discussion at hand because they reflect diversity and speciation as they impact human and other forms of living things and their development (Coyne, 2009). However, the controversies surrounding evolution cannot be and should not be ignored, as they refute age-old arguments regarding creationism and God’s creation of man in the form of Adam and Eve.

In consideration of Coyne’s book, biology and evolution outweigh all other arguments, and the evidence in support of these perspectives are deemed critical in addressing evolution and its meaning for human existence. From a personal perspective, the religious view of creation has always been prominent; however, learning of Darwin’s theory of evolution and natural selection in school was an eye-opening experience. This perspective makes more sense because it addresses many of the basic biological principles that drive genetics and speciation. Under these conditions, it is necessary to evaluate the different issues that are relevant in Coyne’s book that serve as the biological basis in explaining how human beings became what they are today. This is an important step towards the discovery of the scientific basis for human development.

Within the context of Coyne’s arguments, it is evident that there are considerable challenges related to evolution because of the stark contrast in beliefs regarding the creation of man by God. In some ways, one might argue that the two concepts are interrelated to some degree, as they both emphasize the importance of human development, albeit in different forms. However, the connection lies in the belief that God governs all things and that under his umbrella, biology is a necessary component of humanity and existence as it stands today. Without biology, the world would not exist in the same manner and God’s plan would not continue to evolve in its current form. Therefore, it is possible that God dictates evolution to the extent that biological processes did not fall from the sky; rather, they are governed by a higher power, including the ability to experiment and to develop new discoveries. This approach is relevant because it demonstrates the importance of addressing the context of human existence through biological evolution and experimentation, all of which is governed by unknown factors. The ability to recognize biology and its meaning to human development and existence is significant because it combines a number of different perspectives into a combined approach that explores how biology influences man but is also governed by a higher power.

Conclusion

Evolution is a complex phenomenon that continues to mystify audiences and experts alike in the 21^st Century. The arguments remain steadfast on both sides, as many men and women believe in a religious view of human existence in that God created man, and then procreation took over from that point forward. However, evolution is largely biological in nature and represents the ever-changing shift towards natural selection, whereby DNA and genetic changes essentially provide the codes for human existence and specificity in different forms. Each human being is unique and distinct from the next, and this provides a greater understanding of the challenges of biology and how natural selection is a likely practice. The development of human beings under evolution has occurred through continuous genetic changes and coding that has led to the diversity of the animal and plant kingdoms, from simple cellular components to complex primates, such as human beings. However, under Coyne’s arguments, human beings were derived from a constant state of biological transition that supports the development of new approaches to understand evolution in greater detail. Under these conditions, human beings are not only a product of natural selection, but also a product of different biological changes that led to the advanced intelligence and biological processes that human beings embody today. These efforts are instrumental in shaping outcomes and in reflecting upon the changes that have occurred through continuous evolution of cells into organs and systems, all of which are based upon specific genetic codes and other variables that dictate how human beings are formed and thrive in the modern era.

References

Coyne, J.A. Why Evolution is True. Penguin Books, 2009.

Prothero, D.R. (2009). Review: Why Evolution is True. Reports of the National Center for Science Education, 29(3), retrieved from http://ncse.com/rncse/29/3/review-why-evolution-is-true