A Desert
Millipede: Evolution or Design?--An Introduction
Emmett
L. Williams, Ph.D., George F. Howe, Ph.D., Richard R. White, B.A.
A survey of
some of the interesting functions, structure and behavior of a desert
millipede, Orthoporus ornatus, is presented. Times of surface
activity, defensive mechanism, food preference and locomotion are discussed.
The origin of these characteristics is best philosophically explained
within a design framework.
The Correct
Approach to Scientific Theories
Apostolos
Ch. frangos, B.S., B.A.
Intermixing
of philosophical and metaphysical doctrines with empirical science poses
an important problem, since such doctrines are often presented as scientific
theories, which finally adulterates science itself. It is necessary
to determine the criteria which distinguish science and metaphysical
assumptions and therefore to evaluate the real essence and character
of hypotheses and theories proposed as scientific ones. The problem
appears in the explanation and interpretation of natural events. If
the explanation offered is subject to a scientific test, then it is
scientific. Otherwise, it is a philosophical or metaphysical assumption
which cannot give any scientific knowledge. Empirical scientific testability
is the only basis to determine and separate scientific theories from
metaphysical adoptions.
A Refinement
of Biosystematics Which Reflects Baraminic Variation
Paul
A. Bartz, M.Div.
Life on earth
exhibits discrete gaps between kinds of creatures supportive of the
creationist position. But life also displays variation, a trait which
has traditionally, but incorrectly, been seen as supportive of the evolutionary
interpretation. A combination of these and other factors, notably the
remarkable creativity in the use of traits, sometimes without an apparent
organizing system, makes biosystematics difficult for both the creationist
and the evolutionist. Creationists may now be poised to offer the first
truly objective biosystematics which is acceptable to both sides of
the origins debate. Such an eventuality would radically change the nature
of the origins debate.
Original
Kind and Turtle Phylogeny
Wayne
Frair, Ph.D.
Creationist
biologists have discussed and made limited progress toward understanding
various extinct and extant forms of life within a discontinuous (or
baramin) model. As an example, the turtle appears abruptly in the fossil
record. Among the various scientific approaches directed at understanding
possible turtle diversification has been biochemistry in which serum
proteins primarily have been utilized. A challenge is given for systematics
researchers to investigate nature utilizing a baramin concept.
The Limits
of Biological Variation
Darrel
Kautz, M.A.
The topic of
biological variation in nature is approached from its philosophical
and biblical parameters, rather than from the approach of a research
scientist. Similarities and Diversity Among Organisms: Which World-View
do They Support? G.T. Javor, Ph.D. Both variations and similarities
exist among life forms. This article is a brief consideration of the
explanations offered for the existence of these, by an evolutionary
and by a creationist view of nature. Following the introduction of the
subject, three sub-topics will be considered a) origins of life forms;
b) the meaning or purpose of existence for life forms; and c) predictions
offered for the future of life forms.
Does the
Neo-Darwinian Principle of Homology Work at the Genome Level?
Dimitrij
A. Kouznetsov, Ph.D. and Andrey A. Ivanov, M.S.
Brain tissues
from wild forest mice (Clethrionomys) of two similar species
were used for isolation and purification of highly homologous polyribosomal
poly(A) mRNA sequences by molecular-hybridization with depleted bacterial
plasmid DNAs. The isolated highly homologous populations of mRNAs from
both organisms were translated in vitro using cell-free protein synthesis
systems. Resulting polypeptide chains were analyzed by slab-gel electrophoresis
to test the extent of homology between proteins encoded by the homologous
mRNAs. Results indicate a lack of correlation between mRNA homology
and protein homology.
Historical
Variation in the Human Creature
L. MacAoidh,
M.A.
The human body has varied
little in basic structure but our historical artifacts have changed
dramatically. Intelligence, seeking to conquer "chance" by
force, speed, efficiency and control, is largely responsible. Evolutionary
science does not care about quality but rather quantity under mathematical
control. Rejecting supernatural intelligence by fiat in the very definition
of the scientific method, leaves reason without a true foundation for
the existence of anything. More important, the final source of all variation
is ignored This source is God's love of the beauty and complexity of
the design he himself created. As we are made in His image, we should
likewise enjoy His work of beauty and complexity. Evolution has stolen
this from the life of millions.