Evolution: The Destruction of Humanity?

Throughout human history mankind has seen itself as the most important creation in the universe. The only thing seen as greater than humanity was the gods. This is a common theme that is found in the histories of civilizations, cultures, and religions around the world. Any idea that said humans were different than this or that went against this notion was not only going against these respected institutions it was going against humanity itself. The theory of Evolution was one of the most revolutionary ideas to come forward. It used scientific research to explain how every animal adapted to its’ environment. The controversy of this idea came when Charles Darwin released his book the Descent of Man. In this book he explained how not only animals evolved, but humans diverged from ancient animals as well. This was an ego shattering idea. Religious leaders today still deny the theory, and for good reason. However, I do not think that the biggest reason mankind has had such trouble latching onto this idea is that it goes against their respected religious beliefs. While that has a lot to do with it the main reason people are so against this idea is that admitting it to be true admits that humans are only higher animals. Where Humans used to be the greatest thing in the universe before evolution came along, now they were merely animals who were lucky enough to evolve into intelligent beings. Regardless of whether one believes in the Theory of Evolution, its controversy has affected our view of the meaning of life without the greatness of our humanity.

Charles Darwin, 1809-1882, was the author of On the Origin of Species. In this first book on the theory of evolution Darwin examined and explained how the different species of animals were ...

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... I think someone else would have come along with this theory had he not presented it. So the blame cannot be placed on Darwin alone. The credit for this discover should go to humanity. Science has helped humanity understand complicated problems, but as Evolution shows, it only helps to create more questions. How we understand ourselves and our place in the universe has changed forever. I am certain it will change again in the future, but we will never forget and always try to hang onto our humanity.

Works Cited

Wyhe, Dr. John van. “The Complete Work of Charles Darwin Online.” Biography and Publications. NUS(National University of Singapore) and Arts & Humanities Research Council, 2002. http://darwin-online.org.uk . Feb 22, 2011.

Scheifler, Michael. “Pope John Paul II Declares Evolution to be Fact!.” Bible Light. www.biblelight.net/darwin.htm Feb 22, 2011.