Intelligent Design Theory vs Evolutionary Hypothesis
The debate surrounding the development of the universe, specifically life and even more specifically (and contentiously) human life, has of late entered another phase. Intelligent Design Theory, or IDT, is increasing in popularity and has become almost a household term. The “monkey” debates of the last century where the teaching of evolution in public schools was controversial are now being mirrored in the current debate over the teaching of IDT in schools as a valid scientific alternative to standard Darwinian evolution.
Evolutionary Theory: Selfish Gene or Not?
Richard Dawkins, the key proponent of the selfish gene theory of evolution, revolutionized the way evolution was viewed by proposing that organisms are simply the ‘vehicles’ for genes, and that genes preserve their own existence by promoting qualities and behaviours that increase the organisms chance of survival into the next generation. Dawkins view of evolutionary theory makes it a lot easier to understand ideas such as kin selection and altruistic behaviour, however it does encounter some large theoretical problems such as those of incipient stages. The main objection to Dawkins theory comes in the form of Stephen Jay Gould who is one of the key proponents of the rival to the selfish gene theory; the punctuated equilibrium theory of evolution. This is just one of many available alternatives but is definitely the one that has attained the most attention. Other alternatives to Dawkins view are those of gaia theory, game theory, group selection and individual selection but all have their difficulties.