BACKGROUND:
Organisms are what they are because of their genetic
codes, otherwise known as their genotypes. However, there are variations
that may result because of limiting factors during the development of individuals
with a particular genotype. The visible traits of an organism (its
appearance) make up the phenotype of the organism.
There are many different organisms on this planet, representing
many phenotypes and genotypes. There is certainly something called
extinction, because we see it today through fossils and by actual organisms
that disappear. We see how some organisms adapt to a new situation
and are able to prosper because of the advantages they have. There are
certainly some problems with understanding how all the mechanisms work,
but there are certain events that are documented that lead us to begin
understanding how we develop.
All philosophies, including all religions, have attempted to
explain the diversity of life on this planet. The creation of all
beings is difficult, if not impossible, to explain. Religion has
held a part in developing the early concepts of creation. Most religions
believe in a being of higher order that created the diversity of life.
One cannot dispute or prove the existence of a higher being, there
is little evidence for or against this. Whether you have faith in
a higher order or whether you do not is a personal decision.
There is not a disparity between religion and science when it
comes to evolution. Scientists that deal with evolution use specimens
that indicate evolution has happened through time. Scientists however
cannot dictate what a person believes created life. This is an individual
belief that one has to come to terms with.
PROCEDURE:
- In this exercise we quote a few examples of natural
selection, extinction, adaptation, evolution, and religion. Students are
to determine what type of examples the questions illustrate.
- ANSWERS:
1,2. Adaptation;
3. Natural selection;
4. Extinction;
5. Religion;
6. Evolution;
7. Extinction,
8. Religion.
