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2.1 Explain Charles Darwin's theory of evolution - English General - NSC Religion Studies - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 2
2.1 Explain Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. 2.2 Critically evaluate the response of the following religions to Darwin's theory of evolution: 2.2.1 Christiani... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2.1 Explain Charles Darwin's theory of evolution - English General - NSC Religion Studies - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Explain Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
Answer
Charles Darwin's theory of evolution explains the development of life, starting from simple forms to more complex forms we see today. This theory incorporates several key ideas:
- Variation Among Species: Species exhibit a wide variety of differences, which can affect their survival.
- Natural Selection: In the competition for survival, those individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
- Adaptation: Over time, species gradually change, adapting better to their environments.
- Common Descent: Humans, along with other species, evolved from common ancestors, in this case, apes.
Step 2
Critically evaluate the response of the following religions to Darwin's theory of evolution:
Answer
Christianity
- Literal Interpretation: Traditional Christians often view the scriptures of the Bible, particularly Genesis, as the literal truth.
- Creationism: Some believe that God directly created man in His image, rejecting evolutionary theory.
- Reconciliation: Other Christians interpret Genesis symbolically, accommodating Darwin's ideas within their religious beliefs.
Hinduism
- Complexity of Belief: Hinduism presents a more intricate view of evolution, involving aspects of both spiritual and physical evolution.
- Moral Evolution: Hindus believe that good deeds lead to better reincarnations while bad deeds have the opposite effect.
- Limitations of Darwin's Theory: Additionally, Darwin's theory does not address the spiritual dimensions crucial to Hindu beliefs.
Step 3
Briefly explain the scientific theory of how the universe came into existence.
Answer
The leading scientific theory regarding the origin of the universe is known as the Big Bang Theory. This theory proposes that:
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The universe began from an extremely hot and dense state and expanded rapidly.
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Timeline: This event occurred approximately 15 billion years ago, leading to the formation of various celestial bodies.
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The initial explosion created a universe rich in energy and matter, which eventually formed stars and galaxies.
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Over time, these galaxies formed solar systems, including our own.
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Cosmic Background Radiation: The remnants of this event can still be observed today through cosmic background radiation.
Step 4
With reference to the teachings of any ONE religion, explain how the universe came into being.
Answer
One example is taken from Abrahamic religions, which share similar narratives regarding creation:
- The Creator: They believe in a singular Creator who fashioned the universe.
- Six Days of Creation: According to the scriptures, the universe was created in six days, with humans being formed last.
- Interconnection: The first humans, Adam and Eve, were created as the pinnacle of God's creation, symbolizing the relationship between God and humanity.
This perspective emphasizes that the universe was intentionally created by a divine being, which contrasts with scientific explanations such as the Big Bang.