Re: [asa] Behe's "Edge of Evolution"

This is a headline today that might have relevance. It is often tacitly
assumed that a single mutation would have only a small consequence. This
might suggest otherwise.
Tiny Genetic Differences Have Huge Consequences
<http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/01/080118165005.htm>
JimA [Friend of ASA]

David Campbell wrote:

>Matzke's review is in TREE (Trends in Ecology and Evolution),
>22(11):566-567. Behe's estimate of the probability of mutations in
>malaria suffer from several problems, as do his extrapolations from
>it.
>The two mutations that Behe claims are necessary for resistance are
>not in fact necessary. Various mutations can give slight resistance,
>get selected for, and undergo further modification. The mutations
>have cropped up more than once, so his estimate of mutation frequency
>is too low. Also, resistance to a specific targeted drug requires a
>more specific response than do most environmental challenges. Usually
>there are multiple possible evolutionary options when a particular
>challenge comes along. To use Dembski's metaphor, looking at a
>specific mutation that has happened and declaring it to be highly
>improbable is painting your bull's-eye around the arrow after it
>landed.
>
>Matzke also addresses a few of Behe's other claims.
>
>There's a fairly good review in Books and Culture. It does not
>address the scientific merit of Behe's claims, taking them at face
>value, but it does note that Behe's position clashes with the total
>denial of evolution that's commonplace in young earth and popular ID
>circles, and raises some good theological questions.
>
>
>

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Received on Mon Jan 21 20:22:05 2008