Natures wonders: walking fish have not evolved (Introduction)

by dhw, Sunday, January 26, 2020, 11:14 (1761 days ago) @ David Turell

dhw: I am pointing out that environmental change is a trigger not only for adaptation but also possibly for innovation. If, for some reason, a new mass of water appears, it may be that some bold creature reckons it will find more food in than out, so into the water it goes, and its body may undergo such radical changes that we then have a new species. Some experts think an increase in oxygen triggered the Cambrian Explosion. Maybe the extra oxygen allowed existing creatures to do things that had never been done before, and the body changed accordingly. We don’t know, but I have given you a possible answer to your question why changes might take place even if there is no danger.

DAVID: You are misusing the word 'trigger', which has extended this discussion. A trigger causes something, as in a gun firing a bullet. A trigger is a direct cause or precipitater of action. The nuance is that environmental change allows for new possibilities or demands them if threatening, but is never a direct cause, as you imply regarding the Cambrian. The cause of a new species has to reside in that species, which is why I have God dabbling, since I don't think existingspecies can do it.

Then let me clarify: by “trigger” I mean that the environmental change begins the process of organismal change, which is a REACTION to the new conditions. I do not believe organisms change (or your God changes them) in anticipation of new conditions. What “resides” in species is the ability to RESPOND to new conditions by changing their structure, i.e. adapting and/or innovating. You asked why changes might take place even if there is no danger. I have given you an answer: improving chances of survival. I don’t know why you can’t accept that.

dhw: He might be watching the show unfold, but not wishing to interfere. Not logical?

DAVID: We don't know that do we? Humanly logical, yes.

dhw: We don't "know" anything! But what other logic can you apply? If you mean watching a show is human, how about this: “I agree He probably does have some of our attributes” D.Turell) to reinforce: He “very well could think like us” (D. Turell).

DAVID: These quotes of mine pertain to his personal attributes, never guesses as to his exact thoughts or reasoning, remembering He is a person like no other person. Note I did not specify which specific attributes. The second quote has been explained many times. I'm quite sure He thinks logically as we try to do.

A person like no other person can only be a person if he has personal attributes, but I don’t think many people would say there are lots of persons who can create universes and life. I am also sure that your God would think logically, and since your interpretation of his purpose and method are illogical to your humanly logical mind, I am suggesting that maybe your humanly illogical interpretation could be wrong.