Evolution Under the Microscope

David Swift
Code number 0122
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What we have learned in the last 50 years of molecular biology hasrevealed facts that pose fundamental challenges to Darwin's theory of evolution. This isnot based merely on simplistic arguments about the improbability ofbiological macromolecules (e.g. proteins and genes) - such as have beenpresented already by various other authors: David Swift examinescurrent theories of how it is proposed such macromolecules might haveevolved, and explains why they are totally unsatisfactory; indeed heshows that the complexity of molecular biology completely defies anysort of evolutionary explanation. Further, there is no evidence for theconstructive mutations that would be required to fuel long-termevolution (and the book includes a detailed discussion of theacquisition of resistance to pesticides which is frequently portrayedas demonstrating such evolution).

Many advocates of evolutionpoint to the operation of natural selection and the fossil record asevidence, even proof; but David Swift shows that any demonstrableevolution is strictly limited and does not answer the fundamentalproblems posed by biochemistry, in fact adds weight to them. Evencircumstantial evidence such as homology (e.g. the similarity ofvertebrate skeletons) is not what it seems; in fact the lack ofhomology between apparently related groups of organisms furtherchallenges their supposed evolution from a common ancestor.

Hebrings the book to a close by discussing the nature of science - thatit progresses through paradigms which explain some of the facts, butwhere anomalous ones are suppressed - which is why there is reluctanceto give due weight to the many problems with the theory of evolution.

Thisthoroughly researched book is a must for any with a serious interest inthe subject of evolution. It successfully tackles the scientific issuesat an appropriate level for consideration by professional biologists,and at the same time makes the subject accessible to the more generalreader.

423 pages, paperback.

Review:
"David Swift has written a very carefully reasoned and solidlyresearched book which severely challenges Darwinian evolutionarytheory. The first 6 chapters are about the history of evolutionaryideas. Those who want to get stuck into the biochemical challenges toDarwinism can skim along to chapter 7 where they will encounter quiteriveting and superbly written arguments. He successfully shows us thedetails of molecular construction and the irreducible complexity ofgenes. What I like about his style is that he never preaches or getsemotional - quite calmly he deconstructs the idea that mindless andpurposeless forces have shaped us. We are left with a sense of awe -sadly lacking in so much of biology today. This is quite an academicwork but not beyond the grasp of the educated reader with somebiological training. A must for any open minded enquirer about ourorigins." - Dr. A.C. Latham, author of The Naked Emperor