Evolution Under the Microscope: A Scientific Critique of the Theory of Evolution - Softcover

Swift, David

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0954358902 ISBN 13: 9780954358907

Publisher: Leighton Academic Press, 2002

Synopsis

David Swift sets the scene by outlining the rise of evolutionary ideas up to Darwin, who introduced the key concept of natural selection. He then describes how the theory developed as an understanding was gained of hereditary mechanisms, leading to the emergence of Neo-Darwinism - evolution through natural selection in the context of Mendelian genetics. By the middle of the 20th century there were good reasons for the widespread acceptance of evolution - to the extent that many were convinced the theory must be true, no matter what further discoveries were made.

However, what we have learned in the last 50 years of molecular biology has revealed facts that pose fundamental challenges to the theory. This is not based merely on simplistic arguments about the improbability of biological macromolecules (e.g. proteins and genes) - such as have been presented already by various other authors: David Swift examines current theories of how it is proposed such macromolecules might have evolved, and explains why they are totally unsatisfactory; indeed he shows that the complexity of molecular biology completely defies any sort of evolutionary explanation. Further, there is no evidence for the constructive mutations that would be required to fuel long-term evolution (and the book includes a detailed discussion of the acquisition of resistance to pesticides which is frequently portrayed as demonstrating such evolution).

Many advocates of evolution point to the operation of natural selection and the fossil record as evidence, even proof; but David Swift shows that any demonstrable evolution is strictly limited and does not answer the fundamental problems posed by biochemistry, in fact adds weight to them. Even circumstantial evidence such as homology (e.g. the similarity of vertebrate skeletons) is not what it seems; in fact the lack of homology between apparently related groups of organisms further challenges their supposed evolution from a common ancestor.

He brings the book to a close by discussing the nature of science - that it progresses through paradigms which explain some of the facts, but where anomalous ones are suppressed - which is why there is reluctance to give due weight to the many problems with the theory of evolution.

This thoroughly researched book is a must for any with a serious interest in the subject of evolution. It successfully tackles the scientific issues at an appropriate level for consideration by professional biologists, and at the same time makes the subject accessible to the more general reader.

About this title

From the Inside Flap

This book is sure to make a distinctive and valuable contribution to the debate about evolution. For too long the debate has been polarized between those trying to defend a traditional creationist position that species were made with little or no capacity for change, and those advocating that all forms of life have evolved from a common source. David Swift examines the evidence from molecular biology, genetics, the operation of natural selection and the fossil record, and concludes that neither position faces up to the facts. Whilst it is evident that some significant changes can occur, which may legitimately be described as evolutionary, he explains why these do not substantiate the supposition that higher organisms evolved from simpler forms. Indeed, his analysis exposes fundamental flaws in the overall theory of evolution.

He calls upon biologists to take a fresh, objective look at all the facts. And this book is not only for biologists: it will be of value for its clear exposition of the history and science of evolution which make the subject accessible to many others. Whatever your current view, be prepared to rethink your ideas on this emotive subject.

Edition details

• Publisher: Leighton Academic Press
• Publication date: 2002
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0954358902
• ISBN 13: 9780954358907
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 423