The Purpose of Extinction in Evolutionary Theory and Beyond
In the realm of evolutionary theory, creationism, and religious beliefs, one fundamental question emerges: Why would 99.9% of all species that have ever existed on Earth go extinct according to creationists? Various perspectives encompass both scientific and theological explanations, which this article will explore.
Understanding the Scale of Extinction
Organized multicellular life has existed on Earth for over three billion years. Species typically last a few million years, a short span in the grand scale of deep time. This understanding is crucial in recognizing the inevitability of species extinction within the broader context of life's evolution.
The Role of Allah and Evolution
Some creationists believe in a creator, such as Allah, and posit that the vast majority of species going extinct is part of their divine plan. By contrast, proponents of evolution argue that the process of extinction is a natural part of the cycle of life, where species adapt and evolve to survive or face extinction.
A Muslim view expressed by the passage posits life before creation and eternal existence, which is a theological perspective. However, it also acknowledges the importance of understanding evolution through science. The argument is that the extinction of species is not a theological problem but a scientific and natural phenomenon.
Evolution vs. Creationism
According to the passage, evolution is the driving force behind species extinction, rather than an omnipotent god like Allah. The concept of allah-illah ( ???? - ????) or any other god imagined by human minds is dismissed as a figment of imagination. The author believes that evolutionary processes are responsible for the natural extinction of species, which aligns with a scientific understanding.
The Cycle of Life and Extinction
The cycle of life involves the beginning, middle, and end of species and ecosystems. Despite the widespread extinction of species, some remain, such as sharks and magnolia plants, which evolve and adapt over time. This resilience highlights the dynamic nature of life on Earth.
The Significance of Extinction
The extinction of species does not diminish the value of the extant and versatile life forms on Earth. In fact, it contributes to the diversification of life and the adaptation of remaining species. This perspective shifts the focus from the loss of species to the ongoing process of natural selection and evolution.
The passage emphasizes that understanding and learning from the creatures of Allah, or any other deity, can provide invaluable insights. The human ability to invent airplanes, telephones, wireless technology, artificial intelligence, and other technological advancements is attributed to the knowledge gained from studying nature and the creatures that inhabit it.
The ultimate message is that the existence or non-existence of a deity is not dependent on understanding their world, but rather on the capacity to learn and create from the natural world. Evolution and the cycle of life are continuous processes that shape the planet, and our role as humans is to observe and harness them to enhance our lives.
In conclusion, the extinction of 99.9% of all species that have ever lived is a testament to the dynamic nature of life on Earth. Whether viewed through the lens of evolution or the theological concept of a creator, extinction is a critical component of the ongoing cycle of life.