[Junior]

"Evolution" literally means "change." The opposite of "change" is stasis. "Devolution" therefore implies stasis. We see change in organisms from generation to generation (you don't look exactly like your parents, do you?). Therefore we see evolution.

[kkindt]

What devolve means is to come down from an original state of perfection into what we have now. Evolve has the implication of improving - at least it is one connotation and it is definitely what Darwin intended - the survival of the fittest is suppose to mean the evolving of a more perfect creature or life form because it can survive better. Devolve means a coming away from an original perfection into something much less and much worst than what it once was. If you devolve it is not stasis or no change but bad change.