Small changes do not imply large changes
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Contents |
Claim
Creationists recognize that small, microevolutionary changes occur, but small changes do not imply large changes, so the theory of macroevolution is unjustified.
Source
Response
- This is a half-truth. While it's true that small changes don't imply large changes, it's not true that the large changes are unevidenced. From vestigial features to the fossil record, evidence for large scale evolution exists in abundance. The mere fact that small changes occur is not the only (even the primary) basis for universal common descent.
- There is no separate theory for microevolution and macroevolution.
- To prevent small changes from accumulating and making large changes for billions of years, a barrier would be necessary. There is neither empirical evidence nor a theoretical basis for such a barrier.
- All evolution occurs through small changes. This is a Distinction without a difference.
- When one species is divided into two groups, "microevolution" occurs within each group until they have diverged enough that they can no longer interbreed. This is "macroevolution". Thus, micro and macro evolution can be clearly and coherently related, and any Creationists who have unjustifiably divided one from the other either are ignorant of the precise workings of evolution or are pushing a personal agenda.
- Creationists who use this claim fail to clearly define the distinction between micro- and macroevolution, beyond "evolution within a species/kind," and "evolution from one species/kind to another." Furthermore, when clear and obvious evidence of macroevolution is provided, it is invariably dismissed as microevolution, or ignored altogether. This makes the claim vague and untestable and thus scientifically worthless.
- Evolution is a fact, no matter microevolution and macroevolution -as defined by humans according to the Darwinian thought- are the same or not. Darwinism is not the same as evolution, it is just an explanation for the evolutionary phenomena.
External Links
- Theobald, Douglas, 1999. 29+ Evidences for Macroevolution: The Scientific Case for the Theory of Common Descent with Gradual Modification, [2]
Further Reading
- Darwin, C., 1872. The Origin of Species, 1st Edition. Senate, London. [3]
Related claims
- Macroevolution has never been observed
- Range of variation is limited within kinds
- No new phyla, classes, or orders have appeared
- Darwin's finches show only microevolution
- Microevolution is distinct from macroevolution
- There are barriers to large change
