Evolution: a different view with loss of traits; not Behe (Introduction)

by David Turell , Saturday, September 05, 2020, 19:35 (1321 days ago) @ dhw

dhw: I challenge the view that advances ALWAYS result from loss of genes! I suggest that bbbthe process is on-going, with a constant acquisition of new genes (or new functions for old genes) and loss of unwanted genes. Natural selection merely decides which genes are necessary and which are not.

DAVID: Natural selection has nothing to do with genes directly!!! You are challenging two sources of advances in form and function through the gene loss concept: Behe's book, filled with examples and an article that lists many studies but never mentions Behe's ideas. How can you challenge it? From previous bias is obvious.

dhw: What do you mean by “directly”? If certain genes are no longer required, it is perfectly “natural” that they should disappear. I am puzzled by the theory you have presented, so instead of asking why I challenge it, perhaps you would enlighten me by explaining why my bolded proposal above is impossible.

DAVID: Your proposal is wishful, but not supported by anything in the article I presented or by Behe's book. Facts are facts. DNA Loss is now known and supported by a source (quoting multiple studies other than Behe). The last of Darwin worship is dying.

dhw: I have acknowledged DNA loss! Please forget your hatred of Darwin and your love of Behe and explain to me why my bolded proposal is not feasible.

I don't hate your beloved Darwin, never have. He awakened the world to the process of the evolution of life. He worked with the information available and his theory has fallen apart. I intensely dislike the current Darwinists who can't leave the theory and misuse science. His first editions made no mention of God and and he added them in later editions, perhaps due to the furious blowback. Your bolded proposal ignores the point of the article. It is now accepted that new mutations (new genes) are most always deleterious or if effective lead to minor alterations of no major consequence to furthering evolution. If read carefully, the article is in full support of Behe.

Quoting the title and subtitle:

By Losing Genes, Life Often Evolved More Complexity
Recent major surveys show that reductions in genomic complexity — including the loss of key genes — have successfully shaped the evolution of life throughout history.

https://www.quantamagazine.org/by-losing-genes-life-often-evolved-more-complexity-20200...