>Perhaps it is time to address his comments rather than dismiss them as if they had not been made ?>
Donald Howes:
Um, what are the mutation mechanisms relevent for evolution? And how do you know this?>>
At least I hope that we can agree that radiation is likely not one of the best candidates. But there are many mechanisms that can cause mutations of genes.
Donald Howes:
I have met some of the guys how are doing these experiments with flys, and they are pretty determinded to prove that evolution is true. I think they
aren't interested in applying cosistent pressure over 100 years because
that will only show natural selection, everyone believes in natural
selection, so why prove whats already proven? They are doing their best to
make something new, are you saying that they aren't doing it properly?
>>
They are interested in seeing the effects of mutations on how the flys look. This shows how genes are expressed. The combination of mutation and natural selection is what is required. I am not saying that they are not doing it properly just that their experiments have little relevance on the issue of discussion here.
I don't think that anyone is expecting that exposing flys to radiation will suddenly result in a new species. But then again that is not what evolution is all about.