Natura Non Facit Saltus?

"Nature does not make jumps." This was the central principal Darwin used to affirm his evolutionary hypothesis that all species develop from earlier species through gradual and minute changes rather than the sudden emergence of new forms. It is, of course, now understood that nature indeed has the propensity to make sudden jumps, albeit on a relatively small scale. Nevertheless, this predicate is fundamental in Darwin's understanding of Evolution and an absolutely vital first step in the breakthroughs in biological comprehension we now take for granted. Or, do we? And further more, should we?

While reading this chapter, I can't help but feel a slight disheartening and, quite frankly, frustrating apprehension in the way in which this country is squabbling over this basic notion. In fact, here at the beginning of the 21^st century, it is has become impossible for one to breach the subject of Darwin without being accosted by the abrasively foolhardy edict of the Christian Right. Fiercely perpetuating the ridiculous Flinstonian image of dinosaurs in saddles, there are many in this group who would see this work of genius permanently banned in public education. Failing that, taxpayer dollars and what time teachers have that hasn't been ransacked by ludicrous “budget rein ins” shall be spent equally on another theory of how life came to be. This so called “Theory of Intelligent Design” is an insult to education and religion alike and the fact that this is even up for debate truly makes me wonder if there is at all any hope left for a rationally educated population.

While considering this, I was reminded of Gary Larson's Far Side and his countless musings on early Man. This one speaks volumes on many levels. Not only from the Darwinian understanding that life is not always necessarily evolving into something better, but of our own social and educational evolution that, for all intents and purposes, seems to be going in the wrong direction.