Some modern species are apparently degenerate, not higher forms
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Claim
Evolution is supposed to advance species, but some modern species, such as many parasites and species living in caves, appear to be degenerate forms of other species.
Response
- To say that evolution is about species 'advancing' supposes there is something to advance towards. It is usually accompanied with the belief that humans are the highest, and most perfect, form of life. Evolution is about evolving to the most appropriate form for your niche.
- What is "degeneration"? A being that we regard as "degenerate" may be perfectly viable and well-adapted to its environment. If the environment does not demand much from the being, it may not evolve much at all. The same can apply if a particular being is already very well evolved and can meet all challenges.
- No science claims that evolution is supposed to "advance" species, since it requires that one believe that evolution is directed by a conscious entity in order to justify. Nor are there any objective criteria for "advanced" or "degenerate" with which one could measure such a progression. Further, there is no evidence that "parasites" and "species living in caves" are "degenerate forms of other species".
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Fallacies contained in this claim
- Straw Man (Modern biologists don't believe in ontological evolution)
Further Reading
- Dawkins, R., 1982. The Extended Phenotype (OUP), Discusses simplicity in parasites.
