Why Darwin Matters: The Case against Intelligent Design

Michael Shermer talked about his book Why Darwin Matters: The Case Against Intelligent Design, published by Times Books. He was joined in discussion by Mr. Wells. Mr. Shermer, a former evangelical Christian and creationist, argued that “intelligent design” theory appeals to a human predisposition to look for a designer behind life’s complexity. He argued that attacks by proponents of intelligent design are scientifically unsupportable but in fact the theory of natural selection is supported by the scientific evidence and is the foundation on which modern biology rests. He argued that conservatives and Christians should accept evolution because it explains family values, social harmony, human nature, and the origins of morality. Jonathan Wells, author of The Politically Incorrect Guide to Darwinism and Intelligent Design, disagreed with Mr. Shermer. He criticized Darwin’s theory by pointing out examples which, he said, demonstrate that the theory of evolution is not as sound as peop close