ABSTRACTS
A Desert Millipede: Evolution or Design?--An Introduction
Emmett L. Williams, Ph.D., George F. Howe, Ph.D., Richard R. White, B.A.
A survey of some of the interesting functions, structure and behavior of a desert millipede, Orthoporus ornatus, is presented. Times of surface activity, defensive mechanism, food preference and locomotion are discussed. The origin of these characteristics is best philosophically explained within a design framework.
The Correct Approach to Scientific Theories
Apostolos Ch. frangos, B.S., B.A.
Intermixing of philosophical and metaphysical doctrines with empirical science poses an important problem, since such doctrines are often presented as scientific theories, which finally adulterates science itself. It is necessary to determine the criteria which distinguish science and metaphysical assumptions and therefore to evaluate the real essence and character of hypotheses and theories proposed as scientific ones. The problem appears in the explanation and interpretation of natural events. If the explanation offered is subject to a scientific test, then it is scientific. Otherwise, it is a philosophical or metaphysical assumption which cannot give any scientific knowledge. Empirical scientific testability is the only basis to determine and separate scientific theories from metaphysical adoptions.
A Refinement of Biosystematics Which Reflects Baraminic Variation
Paul A. Bartz, M.Div.
Life on earth exhibits discrete gaps between kinds of creatures supportive of the creationist position. But life also displays variation, a trait which has traditionally, but incorrectly, been seen as supportive of the evolutionary interpretation. A combination of these and other factors, notably the remarkable creativity in the use of traits, sometimes without an apparent organizing system, makes biosystematics difficult for both the creationist and the evolutionist. Creationists may now be poised to offer the first truly objective biosystematics which is acceptable to both sides of the origins debate. Such an eventuality would radically change the nature of the origins debate.
Original Kind and Turtle Phylogeny
Wayne Frair, Ph.D.
Creationist biologists have discussed and made limited progress toward understanding various extinct and extant forms of life within a discontinuous (or baramin) model. As an example, the turtle appears abruptly in the fossil record. Among the various scientific approaches directed at understanding possible turtle diversification has been biochemistry in which serum proteins primarily have been utilized. A challenge is given for systematics researchers to investigate nature utilizing a baramin concept.
The Limits of Biological Variation
Darrel Kautz, M.A.
The topic of biological variation in nature is approached from its philosophical and biblical parameters, rather than from the approach of a research scientist. Similarities and Diversity Among Organisms: Which World-View do They Support? G.T. Javor, Ph.D. Both variations and similarities exist among life forms. This article is a brief consideration of the explanations offered for the existence of these, by an evolutionary and by a creationist view of nature. Following the introduction of the subject, three sub-topics will be considered a) origins of life forms; b) the meaning or purpose of existence for life forms; and c) predictions offered for the future of life forms.
Does the Neo-Darwinian Principle of Homology Work at the Genome Level?
Dimitrij A. Kouznetsov, Ph.D. and Andrey A. Ivanov, M.S.
Brain tissues from wild forest mice (Clethrionomys) of two similar species were used for isolation and purification of highly homologous polyribosomal poly(A) mRNA sequences by molecular-hybridization with depleted bacterial plasmid DNAs. The isolated highly homologous populations of mRNAs from both organisms were translated in vitro using cell-free protein synthesis systems. Resulting polypeptide chains were analyzed by slab-gel electrophoresis to test the extent of homology between proteins encoded by the homologous mRNAs. Results indicate a lack of correlation between mRNA homology and protein homology.
Historical Variation in the Human Creature
L. MacAoidh, M.A.
The human body has varied little in basic structure but our historical artifacts have changed dramatically. Intelligence, seeking to conquer "chance" by force, speed, efficiency and control, is largely responsible. Evolutionary science does not care about quality but rather quantity under mathematical control. Rejecting supernatural intelligence by fiat in the very definition of the scientific method, leaves reason without a true foundation for the existence of anything. More important, the final source of all variation is ignored This source is God's love of the beauty and complexity of the design he himself created. As we are made in His image, we should likewise enjoy His work of beauty and complexity. Evolution has stolen this from the life of millions.