Life, as it has evolved over thousands of years, is a fantastic miracle. Since 1945 humans have built nuclear weapons so effectively that the release of them now would eradicate human life several times over. This annihilation potential makes life seem precious. Hard questions which must be asked are listed. (RM)

Doubts that random mutation provides sufficient variability for natural selection of complex biochemical processes; perhaps mutation is non-random? (AL)

Considers natural and cultural environmental factors likely to have been responsible for reduction in size of hominid teeth and simplification of their morphology during the Pleistocene. Cites fossil evidence and postulates selective mechanisms. (EB)

Applies mathematical models to the concepts of ecological dominance and ecological niche. Considers niche width, the addition of new species to a community, and the evolution of dominant and subordinate species within a community. Analyzes data from other studies to support the models. (EB)

Although some competent paleontologists question the role of natural selection in evolution, they do not question question evolution itself. (Author/JM)

Elaborates some of the ideas of Baldwin and Piaget concerning the self-teaching functions of circular reactions, or self-induced repetition of particular schemes, and imitation. Argues that these functions are means for cognitive constructions. Discusses the evolution of imitation and circular reactions in primates. (BC)

Presents a list of books published on the trial of John T Scopes which was held 75 years ago based on the accusation of Scopes violated state's anti-evolutionist law. (YDS)

Examines the accuracy of a disclaimer proposed by the state of Oklahoma to be placed in science textbooks mentioning evolution. Analyzes the scientific accuracy of the disclaimer line by line. (YDS)

Discusses the creationist view of evolution from an evolutionist point of view. (YDS)

Scientists, teachers, and others who defend the teaching of evolution in public school science classes have grown accustomed to countering accusations that acceptance of the theory disavows religious faith. Now, an increasing number of grassroots organizations are trying to fight that perception with renewed vigor, and in so doing, cultivate…

Behe (1998) and Wells (1999) claimed that embryological support for Darwinian evolution is based on the drawings of the 19th century embryologist Ernst Haeckel (1834-1919) whose embryological drawings were regarded inaccurate and fraudulent. The history of modern embryology, the roles played by Von Baer and Haeckel in that history and the manner…

The nature of evolution, the historical change in the universe, and the change that is caused by the workings of the dynamic processes at the smallest and largest scales are studied. It is viewed that the cumulative change in the historical systems is caused by evolution, which is a type of causal relationship and evolutionary processes could be…

The history of human evolution is fascinating and complex indeed. Modern science as revealed by the disciplines of archaeology, palaeontology, and genetics presents strong evidence about the common origins of humankind. Dispersal from the birthplace over millennia has produced a mosaic of identities that are cultural artefacts or social constructs…

"Education Matters" is the monthly newsletter of the Association of American Educators (AAE), an organization dedicated to advancing the American teaching profession through personal growth, professional development, teacher advocacy and protection. This issue of the newsletter includes: (1) In Praise of (and Sympathy for) Teachers…

Lethal intergroup conflict has been part of the human experience ever since our species emerged on the African savannah. Modern evolutionary thinking suggests that children's development could have evolved a variety of responses to it, some of which are highlighted upon considering, from the field of behavioural ecology, life-history theory and,…