Keywords
theory of evolution, creation-evolution, existence of God, divine
Abstract
The crux of the creation–evolution conflict is a futile desire to scientifically prove or disprove the existence of God. The conflict is manifest in the common belief that creation means a divine, supernatural process and that evolution denotes an atheistic, accidental event. Evolution involves a random change in an inherited trait followed by selection for or against the altered trait. If humans use this principle to design machines, solve complex mathematical problems, engineer proteins, and manipulate living organisms, then certainly a super-intelligent being could have used evolution to create life on earth. This reasoning indicates that evolution does not prove atheism and that evolution is a constructive process. The theory of evolution is a mechanistic description and therefore, like all other scientific principles, is neutral on the question of God’s existence. Evolution is compatible with the simple scriptural accounts of creation. Consequently, belief or unbelief in God is put back where it should be — on individual choice.
Recommended Citation
Belnap, David M.
(2015)
"The Theory of Evolution is Compatible with Both Belief and Unbelief in a Supreme Being,"
Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship: Vol. 16, Article 14.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/interpreter/vol16/iss1/14
