[Matchett-PI]

“Evolution requires more faith than I have.” ~ClearCase_guy

Sooooo...

“Which theory of evolution are you talking about?

“...What is the significance of such a theory? To address this question is to enter the field of epistemology.

A theory is a metascientific elaboration distinct from the results of observation, but consistent with them.

By means of it a series of independent data and facts can be related and interpreted in a unified explanation. A theory’s validity depends on whether or not it can be verified; it is constantly tested against the facts; wherever it can no longer explain the latter, it shows its limitations and unsuitability. It must then be rethought.

Furthermore, while the formulation of a theory like that of evolution complies with the need for consistency with the observed data, it borrows certain notions from natural philosophy.

And, to tell the truth, rather than the theory of evolution, we should speak of several theories of evolution.

On the one hand, this plurality has to do with the different explanations advanced for the mechanism of evolution, and on the other, with the various philosophies on which it is based.

Hence the existence of materialist, reductionist, and spiritualist interpretations. What is to be decided here is the true role of philosophy and, beyond it, of theology.

Consequently, theories of evolution which, in accordance with the philosophies inspiring them, consider _the spirit_ as emerging from the forces of living matter or as a mere epiphenomenon of this matter are incompatible with the truth about man. Nor are they able to ground the dignity of the person. ...”

Excerpted from:

Theories of Evolution
John Paul II
First Things 71 (March 1997): 28-29. bttt http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1839540/posts?page=22#22

[editor-surveyor]

John Paul II is dead and gone, but the truth is still there in Genesis for all to see.

God preserves what is true, and buries what is wrong.
.

[BroJoeK]

"Consequently, theories of evolution which, in accordance with the philosophies inspiring them, consider _the spirit_ as emerging from the forces of living matter or as a mere epiphenomenon of this matter are incompatible with the truth about man.
Nor are they able to ground the dignity of the person. ...”
Excerpted from:
Theories of Evolution, John Paul II, First Things 71 (March 1997): 28-29."

The Catholic Church and most Protestant denominations teach "theistic evolutionism," meaning that God creates through the laws of nature.