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Definition: Theistic evolution accepts the explanation of biological evolution as provided by science and rejects the arguments put forth by creationists that life and the planet were created in a special act of God. Thus, theistic evolutionists also accept that human beings are a product of natural, evolutionary forces - "common descent" along with other animals.
However, theistic evolutionists generally reject abiogenesis, the idea that life also originated through natural processes. Instead, they believe that life itself was specially created by God, and then God allowed it to take its natural (and intended) course. Some theistic evolutionists might also take an extra step back and allow that life may have had a natural origin, but will argue that this, too, was intended by God because that is how God designed nature. It is theoretically possible to be a theistic evolutionist and reject this also, believing in a god but not a god which cares about life or which intended life or us to develop. Such a position would, however, be rare and far outside the norm.
Also Known As: creation science
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
Evolution & Creationism...
Is evolution a science? Is creationism a science? What is science? Is there evidence for either? Religious fundamentalists often attack evolution, but rarely from a positions of really understanding what evolution is and how it works. This FAQ will not only teach you more about the nature of evolution and evolutionary theory, but it will also explain some of the more common complaints and where they go wrong.
