Reply #107: LTTE Orlando Sentinel on this subject. Comments? [View All]

First, if Mr. Leppard wants to argue science he should first get his terms right. His mistake is confusing the word "Theory" with "Hypotheses", defined as: a concept that is not yet verified but that if true would explain certain facts or phenomena; a scientific hypothesis that survives experimental testing becomes a scientific theory.

In other words, a hypothesis is the first 'best guess', which after testing and experimentation has been shown to be true in all situations becomes a theory.

Second, the only difference between "macro-evolution" and "micro-evolution" is time scale, making this a false difference. It comes from the limited view of time we have as humans. We tend to see a lifetime as the longest understandable period of time. I wish Mr. Leppard would show us what "HOLES" he means when talking about macro-evolution.

The scientific method places evolution under constant scrutiny. That's what science is all about. If it is shown to be wanting, it will be changed to fit the facts. That's how we learn.

Now Mr. Leppard suggests the theory of Intelligent Design. But ID is not a theory. In fact, it is not even a hypothesis because it can't be tested. If Mr. Leppard will suggest a means of testing ID that is physically possible, I'm sure science would consider it after proof. Until then, we will have to consider ID what logic might call "Argument from Personal Incredulity". Or, "I just don't see how it could happen that way, so it must have been God."

Unfortunately looking at this discussion from a larger view it bodes ill for America as a nation. "Intelligent Design" seems just a softened version of "Creationism Theory", which would invalidate all science and replace it with 'revealed' knowledge. We would, under this 'theory' have no medicine, computers, automobiles, or anything else that science has given us as a society in the last two centuries.

I suggest that Mr. Leppard read "The Handmaiden's Tale" for a probable end in a society of "revealed" knowledge.