The Theory of Evolution

Abstract

This chapter explores the meaning of evolution within the background of the recognition of the phenomenon as the single most dominant theme in present-day biology, and provides basic tenets that undergird its occurrence. This is followed by a discussion of the evidence of evolution through fossil record, anatomy and chemical composition, geographic distribution, and genetic changes, as well as the applications of evolution in medicine, agriculture and industry. There is an overview of the timeline of evolution, as well as some creationists’ perspectives of Young Earth Creationism (YEC), Old Earth Creationism (OEC), Intelligent Design (ID) and Theistic Evolution (TE), with a warning that, in every case where creationist beliefs come up, teachers should exercise caution and handle this in such a way as to be respectful of students’ views, especially where religious sentiments are apparent. The chapter ends with further advice for teachers to unequivocally impart the message that the theory of evolution is supported by an overwhelming body of evidence and is fully accepted by scientists.KeywordsEvolutionAdaptationNatural selectionSurvival of the fittestFossil recordAnatomyChemical compositionGenetic changesDNA codeHumansYoung earth creationismOld earth creationismIntelligent designTheistic evolution