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Micheal Behe has written a jargon-free book about complex biochemical processes at the molecular level which is accessible for a non-scientific generalist such as me. No mean feat in and of itself. Before trying to elucidate what this book is "about," one should declare what this book is not: DARWIN'S BLACK BOX is not a polemic which tries to prove the existence of God. Behe flips upon its head the very charge that has been unfairly levied upon him: an adroitly argued challenge to prejudicial and closed minds. In a nutshell Behe's thesis is that "irreducible complexity" at the molecular level seem to escape an evolutionary explanation. Behe argues that the interdependency of complex systems such as a bacterial flagellum could not possibly have come about by the piecemeal result of natural selection. The development of an irreducibly complex system would have to involve a series of genetic mutations, working not only in unison, but to the umpteenth degree for functionality. Behe believes that on a purely mathematical level, genetic mutation couldn't possibly account for the complexity of organisms at the molecular level. The central analogy that Behe uses to explain irreducible complexity is a simple mousetrap. The independent mechanisms of a mousetrap would be utterly useless unless they work as part an interdependent whole. Behe argues that there must be something outside of the framework of observable phenomenon that accounted for the irreducible complexity of cells at the biochemical level. An irreducibly complex system is like a minutely engineered machine whose very existence (much less its function,) is necessarily reliant on the totality of its dependent parts - if one or more of these components is removed or defective, the entire machine will not function. Behe is at his best giving a working explanation of biological systems at the biochemical level. Behe's lucid writing skills deftly illustrates how the whiplike "motor" of the bacterial flagellum and cilium function. The main weakness to Behe's argument is that if an intelligent entity necessarily exits outside of the parameters of science, how can scientific inquiry be applied and tested to prove or disprove its existence? Is intelligent design the only plausible explanation? Or are there other alternate explanations for irreducible complexity? In the final analysis, Behe's thesis is more an act of faith than a scientific inquiry. I recommend the book not only because of the merits and strengths of its arguments but on the witty and engaging writing skills of Behe. Behe turns the evolution debate on its head by claiming that in many instances, it is a fair share of the scientific community who have closed their minds: "Many people, including many, well-respected scientists just don't want there to be anything beyond nature. [They] bring an a priori philosophical commitment to their science that restricts what kinds of explanations they will accept about the physical world." It should be noted that Behe himself is not a religious fundamentalist, believing not only in the standard model of the age of the universe, but also that both mankind and apes share a common ancestry. Though I believe in evolution, I am a believing, and not a nominal Christian (i.e. I believe in the resurrection and divinity of Christ.) I recommend this book not because I necessarily agree with Behe's conclusions, but because Behe rejects orthodoxy in all its myriad semblances.Read full review
Do you remember biology class? Did you have a teacher like mine, who strongly believed in evolution? She made it seem as if anyone who believed in God was ignorant and did not know what they were talking about. Then she would show a video of a biology teacher of a religious school who also believed in evolution, then everyone in class who claimed to believe in God would yield and leave their supposed steadfast belief in God and the creation account that is recored in the first and second chapter of Genesis. She would talk about archaeopteryx, frogs and how they developed, the fossil record, the infamous experiments made by Stanley Miller on the origin of life, and many other faulty and distorted evidence and she would consider it indisputable evidence. She made it seem as if it was law. She ignored the cell theory, animal instinct, and the fact that science acknowledges the creator of the universe, but unsuccessfully tries to hide the fact, yes, the fact that he exists. Also the fact that Darwin stated in his book the Origin of Species, that if mutation were not seen in the last 100 years or so, then his theory could be dismissed(the book was almost written 150 years ago). Michael J. Behe challenges evolution in ways that you can't even imagine and don't expect. And he doesn't do this using religion beliefs or theology or philosophy, but by pure science. Its both enjoyable and illuminating. If you are seeking the truth and believe in Jehovah God, the creator of the universe, or are looking for him, then this book will give you more faith that he does exist and it will make your faith truly steadfast and unmovable. If you would still like to learn more about this subject, I recommend asking Jehovah's Witnesses for the book, "Life-How did it get here, by Evolution or Creation?", 100% free and obligation free. Peace be with you truth seekers.Read full review
I appreciated the objective analysis of the two concepts, theory of evolution and independent design. For those using textbooks that treat evolution as a fact, this should be required reading. For those scientists that insist evolution is the only way, this is a wake up call. Consider all the evidence on both sides before presenting your 'facts.'
Covers the reasonableness of creation or intelligent design, which is in stark contrast to the happenstance randomness of evolution!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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