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Intelligent Design and Evolution
- Is evolution a fact, theory, or hypothesis?
- How do I compare the theory of evolution with intelligent design?
- Does accepting evolution preclude having religious beliefs?
 Is evolution a fact, theory, or hypothesis?
Evolution is a scientific theory. A scientific theory is one that can be tested by gathering evidence that either disproves or supports it. Facts support or refute theory. Some theories (e.g., relativity and gravity) are so well supported that we think of them as fact, and for most scientists, evolution is in that category.
Sometimes confusion results in the misunderstanding of the differences between scientific terms such as theory, hypothesis, and fact. To help clarify their meanings:
A hypothesis is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon. Hypotheses are the first step in the formation of a theory. If a hypothesis is confirmed through experimental testing, observation, and data collection, it can become a theory. Many hypotheses fail these tests and have to be revised or completely rejected. This testing and error-correcting behavior is the basic feature of science and serves to advance and improve the current state of scientific knowledge.
A scientific theory is an explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is well substantiated by evidence. Scientific theories provide interpretations of the natural world that are supported by experimentation and observation. Take gravity and electricity, for example. These two phenomena are explained by theories that each one of us test and observe everyday.
Examples of scientific theories include relativity and gravitation. Powerful theories like evolution have stood the test of time—weathering the challenges of new discoveries and standing up to intense scrutiny by the scientific community. Evolution is a scientific theory that unifies all aspects of the biological sciences and provides a framework to understand the history of life on Earth.
Facts are knowledge or information based on real occurrences that have been directly observed. Facts support or refute theories.
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 How do I compare the theory of evolution with intelligent design?
You can’t. The theory of evolution is supported by rigorous scientific research. Intelligent design and creationism are not within the realm of science and are best characterized as faith-based belief systems.
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- Does accepting evolution preclude having religious beliefs?
No. The methodology of science is the most effective means of describing how the natural world works. It has given humankind the automobile, airplane, computer, medicine, and agriculture—all the technologies that sustain our modern society. There is no other system that works as well to describe the world around us.
In contrast, religion is a faith-based belief system. For many people, it offers guidance and provides comfort and meaning to their lives. Science and religion are not mutually exclusive. Many scientists are religious, and some scientists feel that knowledge of the natural world complements their religious beliefs.
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Continue to Misconceptions About Evolution. >>
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