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The Evolution Site The theory of evolution by natural selection is the unifying force of modern biology. It ties together disciplines that are as diverse as genetics microbiology, and Palaeontology. However the study of evolutionary theory is often controversial, and the misinformation that results can confuse people regarding its basic concepts. This site can help to clarify the fundamental concepts. What is Evolution? Modern evolutionary theory is based on the gradual and cumulative changes that occur in populations over time. These changes are the result of natural selection. This is a process that increases the number of organisms that have beneficial traits, which help them to survive and reproduce in certain environments. As a result, these organisms have more offspring than those that do not have the beneficial traits. This could result in a genetic mutation that could eventually result in new species. The term “evolution” is often ascribed to the notion of “survival of the fittest,” which implies that those individuals who are best adapted to a particular set of environmental conditions will be more successful than those who are not well-adapted. This is only one of the many ways in which evolution can happen. Another way that the term “evolution” is used to suggest that a species will invariably progress from one state of being to the next one. This view of evolution can be referred to as anagenetic or cladogenesis. The scientific definition of evolution does not support this idea. The theory of evolution that is based on science change is based on changes that occur in populations over time. These changes are the result of mutations that produce natural selection and genomic variation. Charles Darwin was one of the scientists who backed this theory. Others, notably Alfred Russel Wallace, who developed the theory of macroevolution and believed that this was the only way that the higher forms of life could be derived from lower ones. In order for a concept to be considered a theory, it must be able to stand up to rigorous tests and evidence. Evolution has stood the test of time and has been supported in many scientific disciplines, from biology to geology, chemistry to astronomy. Evolution is a cornerstone of science and is believed by the majority of scientists across the world. Many people are misinformed about the nature of evolution theory particularly how it is connected to religion. What is the Theory of Evolution? Evolution is an explanation for the way living things change over time. It relies on a number of well-established observations such as the fact that more offspring are often created than are likely to survive; that individuals differ from one another in their physical characteristics (phenotype); that different traits have different rates of reproduction and survival and reproduction; and that these traits can be passed down to future generations. These observations are supported by an increasing body of evidence derived from molecular biology, palaeontology climatology functional geology, morphology. Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace independently developed the theory of evolution based on selection in the middle of the 19th century as a way to explain how organisms are adapted their physical and biological environments. It is currently the most well-supported and most widely tested theory in the field of science. Its predictions were proved by the fact, for example that more complex organisms have less genetic mutations. The more successful an organism is in terms of survival and reproducing, the more likely it will transmit its genes to future generations. Some people oppose evolution because they think it implies there is no reason for existence. However, many scientists who are also religious believers such as the renowned Cambridge Palaeontologist Simon Conway Morris, believe that evolution is not only compatible with faith in God but is enhanced by it (BioLogos 2014). In actual fact, a significant number of highly qualified evolutionary biologists, including a few who are renowned evangelical Christian leaders are involved in the development and testing of the theory of evolution. Many of them have contributed to the understanding of a broad variety of phenomena such as phylogenetics, genomics, and the formation and function of fossils. The word “theory” that is often used incorrectly is a reference to a scientific hypothesis that has been tested and refined over time. Scientists test their theories by repeating the experiment or observations that led to them. Therefore, the theory of evolution has been repeatedly tested out and so have the theories of Copernican, atomic and germ theory. What is the Process of Evolution? The process of evolution is a gradual change in the proportions of genetically different individuals within a particular species over time. This change is a result of natural selection, which favors individuals who are more adapted to their environment. The more adapted individuals have higher chances of reproducing and survival. As more of these individuals survive and reproduce, their genes are more prevalent in the general population. This process is sometimes called “survival of the most fittest.” According to evolution theory the causes of mutations that result in genomic variation are what triggers evolution. These mutations may occur at random or be influenced by the environment. When mutations are random the frequencies of the resulting alleles may differ from generation to generation. If a mutation is beneficial, it can increase the frequency of the allele, causing the allele to spread throughout the population. These changes in allele frequency could lead to new species as time passes. The new species will then evolve and develop into newer forms. This is known as macroevolution. My Source of a new species is often caused by changes in the environment that make certain kinds of resources available or cause new environmental challenges. The development of finches in the Galapagos Islands, for example is due to the availability of new food and the need to defend themselves against predators. In a wider context the term “evolution” refers to any change that occurs in the traits of organisms over the course of time. This change can be small like the development of a new coloration or even massive, like the development of a brand new organ. Scientists who accept the theory of evolution generally agree on the importance of genetic change in generating evolution. They also acknowledge that evolution is a process that takes place in time, typically over a period of millions of years. However, they differ on the role of different factors in accelerating or retarding the process, like the role of environmental pressures, sexual selection, and mutation bias. Despite these disagreements, most scientists are still convinced that evolution is real and that the evidence to prove it is overwhelming. What evidence do we have to support evolution? Since Darwin's time, scientists have collected evidence that supports his theory of evolution. A portion of this evidence comes from fossils which demonstrate the changing features of living things over time. Similarities between living and non-living organisms as well as embryology, biogeography and genetics are evidence. The evolutionary tree is the most effective method to prove the existence of evolution. It demonstrates how species are closely related. Another source of evidence is homologous structures, which share a similar structure in different species but serve different purposes like the wings of birds and bats. The fact that different species evolve and adapt to the same environment is another sign of evolution. For instance, arctic-foxes and ptarmigans grow seasonal white pelts that blend in with snow and ice. This is a type of convergent evolution, which suggests that the species have common ancestors. Vestigial structures are a different piece of evidence. These are parts of an organism that could have served a purpose in the distant past. For example the human appendix may be an oblique reminder of an organ that was used to digest food. Natural selection causes the structures to shrink when they are no longer used. Scientists have also gathered additional evidence of evolution through observation and experimentation. The evidence for evolution can be divided into six categories: directly visible small-scale changes, biogeographic patterns as well as comparative anatomy, fossil record, genetics, and classification. Each of these categories provides solid evidence for the evolution of life. Many people have misconceptions regarding the theory of evolution. But, it's a fact. It is not simply a flimsy theory. It is a mighty collection of decades of observations and data that has been tested and proven. Scientists continue to gather and study new information to better understand the evolution of the Earth's life, regardless of whether people believe in the theory of evolution or not. This information will aid scientists to understand how to avoid future global catastrophes and how to make the most of the resources on our planet. This information will also help us better meet the needs and wants of all the people living on this planet.