Let's Talk About Evolution!

Hi,

If you read Digg.com, them every now and again you will come across articles that try to predict the way that we as a species are headed. Ecology, economic and scientific articles I read with interest, but they don't get me annoyed. The articles that piss me off are the ones about Evolution.

That there is evolution happening is not seriously in doubt, and that it has always happened is again a as near to a fact as can be. Those who disagree are Creationists, and therefore not open to debate.

Evolutionary theory is based on the premise that when an individual animal develops a trait which makes it more successful at passing its genetic characteristics on to the next generation, then over time this will lead to a change in the species as a whole as its genes spread.

Now, the characteristic must make the animal more likely to pass its genes on. It must make him or her a more successful mating and parenting unit. Her is where I get annoyed.

You will find some morons saying things like "As we evolve, we will become better able to use computers and multitask with technology and stuff" or ""Because we are all using PS3 controllers, our thumbs will evolve to make us better gamers, they will be bigger and more mobile"

Now, Genetic material in an individual (as far as we know) is fixed. People don't evolve, species do. So if you get good at playing video games, your skill will not be passed on to your offspring as a genetic trait. Sorry. Secondly, and without being offensive, your trait must make you attractive to the opposite sex and more likely for them to be a sexual partner over and above others of the same species. I.T. and gaming skills don't score high on the list of desirable traits for a lover. "I can configure your home network" .."Oh you stud, take me!, TAKE ME!" Not feasible eh?

In theory, the only genetic mutation which will be passed on by natural selection is one which makes the person with the trait more successful at mating, and producing children. Smallpox resilience is an obvious trait which gives you a mating advantage (you cant mate if you are dead).

I struggle to see how most of the stresses of modern life can be easily turned to a stimulus for genetic advantage.

From experience, it appears the inability to have any moral qualms about sexual fidelity, and not caring about being a father to you children, are two traits which allow more rapid and indiscriminate spreading of your genetic material.

So next time you are on a council sink estate, or an inner city project, look around and see the future of humanity.

The meak won't inherit the Earth, it will be the Chavs.

Be Good