The Evolution Site

The theory of evolution by natural selection is the unifying force of modern biology. It brings together disciplines such as genetics, palaeontology and microbiology.

The study of evolution may be controversial, and the misinformation that is generated can lead to confusion about the fundamentals of evolution. This site can help explain the most important concepts.

What is Evolution?


Modern evolutionary theory is based on the gradual and cumulative changes that happen in populations over time. These changes are the result of natural selection, which increases the number of organisms that have traits that are beneficial and allow them to survive and reproduce in a particular environment. These organisms produce more offspring as a result of the beneficial characteristics. This can cause a genetic change that could eventually lead to new species.

The term "evolution" is often ascribed to the notion of "survival of the fittest," which means that individuals who are best adapted to a particular environment will be more successful than those who aren't adapted to the environment. This is just one of many ways in which evolution can occur.

Another common way the term "evolution" is used to suggest that a species will inevitably progress from one state of being to the next state of being. This theory of evolution is known as anagenetic or cladogenesis. The definition of evolution in science is not in agreement with this view. The scientific theory of evolutionary changes focuses on the changes that occur in populations over time. These changes are the result mutations that result from natural selection and genomic variation.

Charles Darwin was one of the scientists who supported this theory. Alfred Russel Wallace who developed the macroevolution theory believed this was only way the higher forms of living could have evolved.

For a concept to be referred to as a theory, it must be capable of surviving rigorous testing and evidence. Evolution has stood the test of time, and has been backed by many scientific disciplines, from geology to biology, chemistry to astronomy. In fact evolution is regarded as one of the fundamental tenets of science today, and it is supported by the vast majority of scientists around the world. However, there are many misconceptions about the nature of the theory of evolution, specifically how it is related to religion.

What is the Theory of Evolution?

find out here now is the scientific explanation of the way living things change over time. It is based on a variety of well-established observable facts: that more offspring are often produced than can possibly survive; that individuals differ from each other in their physical characteristics (phenotype); that different traits have different rates of survival and reproduction; and that traits can be passed on to future generations. These findings are supported by the increasing amount of evidence from molecular biology, palaeontology, climatology, functional morphology and geology.

Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace independently conceived the theory of evolution by selection in the mid-19th Century as an explanation why organisms are able to adapt to their physical and biologic environments. It is the most widely accepted and tested theory in science. Its predictions were proven by the evidence that, for instance, more complex organisms are less susceptible to genetic mutations. In addition the more successful an organism is at being able to reproduce and survive in its ability to reproduce, the more likely it is to pass on its genes to the next generation.

Some people are against evolution because they believe that it suggests that there is no reason for existence. However, a lot of scientists who are also religious believers like the famous Cambridge palaeontologist Simon Conway Morris, believe that evolution is not just compatible with faith in God but can be enhanced by it (BioLogos 2014).

Many highly skilled evolutionary biologists have been involved in constructing and testing the theory of evolution, including some respected evangelical Christian leaders. Many of them have contributed to the understanding of a wide variety of phenomena including phylogenetics and genomics and the formation and purpose of fossils.

The term "theory" is sometimes used incorrectly to mean a speculation or guess however it actually is a scientific hypothesis that has been systematically evaluated and refined over time. Scientists test hypotheses through repeating the experiments or observations that led them to them. The theory of evolution has been repeatedly proven out, as have the related theories of Copernican, germ and atomic theory.

What is the Process of Evolution?

The process of evolution is a gradual shift in the genetically different individuals within a species over time. This change is a result of natural selection, which favors individuals who are more adapted to their environment. The individuals who are more adaptable have a greater chance of survival and reproduction. As more of these individuals survive and reproduce their genes become more common in the general population. This is sometimes referred to as "survival for the strongest."

According to the theory of evolution the mutations that cause genomic variation are the raw material for evolution. These mutations may occur at random or be affected by the environment. When mutations occur at random and the frequencies of alleles can vary from generation-to-generation. When an alteration is beneficial, it can increase the frequency of the allele, causing it to spread throughout the population.

Over time, these shifts in the frequencies of alleles can lead to the formation of new species. The new species will grow and evolve into new forms. This is known as macroevolution. The creation of new species is usually due to changes in the environment, that make certain resources accessible or creates new environmental challenges. For instance, the rise of finches on the Galapagos Islands is a result of the abundance of food sources and the need defend themselves from predators.

In a broader sense the term "evolution" refers to any change that takes place in the nature of living organisms over time. The change could be subtle, like the development of a new color or dramatic, like the development of an organ.

Scientists who accept the theory of evolution generally agree on the importance of genetic change in the process that causes evolution. They also believe that evolution is a process that occurs in time, typically over a period of millions of years. They differ on the importance of different factors that can accelerate or slow down this process. For instance, the role of sexual selection, environmental pressures, and mutation bias. Despite these differences most scientists still believe that evolution is real and the evidence to prove it is overwhelming.

What evidence do we have to support evolution?

In the decades since Darwin's time, scientists have collected evidence to support his theory of evolution. The evidence comes from fossils that demonstrate the evolution of living organisms over time. Similarities between living organisms as well as embryology, biogeography, and genetics are further evidence.

The most important proof of evolution is in the evolutionary tree, which shows how species are related. Another evidence source is homologous structures, which share a similar structure in different species but serve different purposes such as the wings of birds and bats. The fact that different species evolve and adapt to a similar environment is another sign of evolution. For instance, arctic-foxes and Ptarmigans wear white pelts during the winter months which blend with snow and ice. This is a type of convergent evolutionary, which suggests that the species have common ancestors.

Another evidence point is the existence of vestige structures, which are unutilized parts of an organism which could serve a purpose in the distant ancestors. The human appendix, for instance is a remnant of an organ that once used to digest food. Natural selection causes these structures to shrink as they are no longer used.

Scientists have also collected evidence of evolution through observation and testing. The evidence for evolution can be divided into six distinct categories: directly observed changes at a smaller scale biogeographic distributions and comparative anatomies fossil records and genetics. Each of these provides convincing evidence that the evolution of life has occurred.

Many people have misconceptions regarding the theory of evolution. However, it's an established fact. It is not a speculative theory, but rather a powerful collection founded on years of observation. Scientists continue to collect and study new information to better understand the evolution of the Earth's life regardless of whether or not people believe in the theory of evolution or not. This information will allow scientists to better understand how we can avoid future global catastrophes and how best to make use of the resources on our planet. This information will also help us better serve the needs and wants of the people who live on this planet.