> I think saying that, "random mutation and natural selection specifically
> denies any possibility of design," is an overstatement. It is certainly
> consistent with a world made in the absence of design, but it is not
> inherently incompatible with design.
My question to follow up this assertion is: if it is allowed that
random mutation and natural selection provide the mechanism, where
then can design be found? Should we look for it in random mutation?
Should we look for it in natural selection?
It appears to me that neither option is attractive, and Christians
believing in evolution have struggled to say anything convincing. By
taking a strong view on God's sovereignty, I think it is possible to
defend design arising from natural selection (analogous to Dawkins'
argument that information is drawn from the environment). However,
IMO this is a very low view of design. Natural selection is a blunt
instrument for God to have created the animals, plants and man.
What sort of design is consistent with a Christian view of creation?
Is it intelligent design? If so, how does this relate to design via
God sovereignly controlling the environment so that certain randomly
occuring mutations can be selected? Is intelligent design compatible
with the selection of such a blunt instrument to achieve his
creative goal.
I'm sorry if there are too many questions here - but it seems to me
that this is where the heart of many differences between Christians
lies.
Best regards,
David J. Tyler.