Question

What conclusions can be drawn about the relationship between the present-day theory of evolution and its credibility?

a) The theory lacks scientific evidence
b) The theory is universally accepted without critique
c) The theory has evolved based on accumulating evidence
d) The theory is solely based on personal beliefs

Answer 1

The present-day theory of evolution is credible and has evolved based on accumulating evidence. It is supported by biological and geological observations and enjoys broad consensus among scientists, much like other established scientific theories. It is not just a personal belief or an unsupported guess.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main answer to the question What conclusions can be drawn about the relationship between the present-day theory of evolution and its credibility? is that the theory has evolved based on accumulating evidence (option c). The explanation is that the theory of evolution, initially met with skepticism, has become more credible as it has withstood considerable critique. Rather than being accepted without question, it has been refined over time with new biological and geological evidence, reinforcing its scientific validity. The discovery of DNA and the genetic mechanisms behind heritable traits, for instance, lent significant support to the theory long after its original conception by Darwin and others.Furthermore, the assertion by some that evolution remains controversial among biologists is countered by a broad consensus within the scientific community that supports the theory. This consensus is backed by a vast amount of peer-reviewed research and the endorsement of major scientific organizations. Far from being 'just a theory', in the scientific sense, evolution is a well-supported framework that explains a wide array of natural phenomena. It is akin to other robust scientific theories like the theory of gravity or the theory of relativity. In fact, the biologist Theodosius Dobzhansky famously stated, 'Nothing in biology makes sense, except in the light of evolution.'In conclusion, the theory of evolution is not based on little evidence or personal beliefs, but rather it is a robust and well-supported scientific theory that describes factual observations about the living world.

Answer 2

The theory has evolved based on accumulating evidence can be drawn about the relationship between the present-day theory of evolution and its credibility.

The correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

a) The theory lacks scientific evidence

This statement is inaccurate. The theory of evolution is supported by extensive scientific evidence gathered from various fields like paleontology, genetics, molecular biology, and observational studies. It's widely regarded as one of the most substantiated theories in science.

b) The theory is universally accepted without critique

While the theory of evolution is widely accepted within the scientific community due to its robust evidential support, it is not immune to critique. Scientific theories are subject to scrutiny and are continuously tested and refined based on new evidence and research. However, the overwhelming consensus among scientists is in support of evolutionary theory.

c) The theory has evolved based on accumulating evidence

This statement is accurate. The theory of evolution has undergone significant refinement and expansion over time as new evidence has been discovered. It continues to evolve as scientific advancements provide deeper insights into evolutionary mechanisms and processes.

d) The theory is solely based on personal beliefs

This statement is incorrect. The theory of evolution is not based on personal beliefs but on empirical evidence collected through rigorous scientific investigation.

So, the correct option is C.