Explaining natural wonders: bacterial intelligence (Animals)

by David Turell , Friday, May 26, 2017, 22:00 (2739 days ago) @ dhw

DAVID: Not all bacteria have alternative pathways. There are individual differences. That is why I used the word lucky. I was rejecting the idea that Lady luck helped bacteria invent something that did not exist. Perhaps I misunderstood you.

dhw: There is no mention in my post of bacteria inventing something that did not exist. So we're back to some lucky bacteria unknowingly switching on the alternative pathways which God set out 3.8 billion years ago, while the rest either don't know the pathways are there, or press the wrong switch. Or maybe some bacteria are cleverer than others at finding the solutions as problems arise.

My point remains the same. Alternative pathways have always existed, stronger in some than others due to individual variability. The lucky ones with stronger pathways survive, cleverness not involved. Clear?
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DAVID: In my view, God uses an evolutionary process to advance complex life. You are assuming His unlimited powers.

dhw: Yes, we agree that evolution took place, and so if God exists he used evolution. As regards unlimited powers, I was referring to your beliefs, not mine. In our discussion on “delay” you vacillated over whether he had them or not, and then concluded he did, but you have changed your mind so often that maybe I’m mistaken. If so, my apologies.

I've always pointed out His use of evolution. That implies that He might not be all-powerful. On the other hand He might simply prefer the method. I can't reach a conclusion, but we've thoroughly discussed this many times.

DAVID: I am saying He didn't choose instant creation. You are saying He can. Are you now religious?

dhw: No. I am only saying it doesn’t make sense to me to assume that he specially designed ancestors with useless spines (= of no immediate advantage) in order to prepare for proper spines millions of years later. But perhaps once again you are going back to the idea that he couldn’t design the “right” spine because his powers were limited.

Have you forgotten that evolution requires steps of improvement? Preliminary alerations are usually required before big changes. I don't undertand your comment.