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2.1 Explain Charles Darwin's theory of evolution - 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 - NSC Religion Studies - Question 2 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Explain Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
Answer
Charles Darwin's theory of evolution provides a comprehensive explanation for the development of life on Earth, positing that all species of organisms have evolved over time from common ancestors through a process of natural selection. This process is driven by the following key ideas:
- Variation: Individual species exhibit a wide range of differences.
- Struggle for Existence: In the competition for resources, individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
- Survival of the Fittest: Over time, advantageous traits become more common in the population, leading to gradual changes in species.
- Common Descent: All species, including humans, have evolved from earlier forms of life, with humans specifically evolving from ape-like ancestors according to Darwin.
Step 2
Critically evaluate the response of the following religions to Darwin's theory of evolution:
Answer
Christianity
Traditional Christian beliefs, as outlined in the book of Genesis, generally reject Darwin's theory, asserting that God created humans in His own image and that creation occurred in six days. However, modern interpretations among liberal Christians have begun to accommodate Darwin's insights, seeing Genesis as metaphorical rather than literal. This spectrum of belief showcases the tension within Christianity regarding the compatibility of faith and scientific understanding.
Hinduism
Hinduism presents a more intricate view of evolution that incorporates both physical and spiritual dimensions. Unlike Darwin's framework, Hindu beliefs suggest that an individual's actions influence their spiritual evolution and reincarnation. While recognizing Darwin’s contributions, some Hindus argue that his theory lacks an understanding of the spiritual aspect of existence. This complex interaction represents a distinct divergence in the discussion of creation and evolution.
Step 3
Briefly explain the scientific theory of how the universe came into existence.
Answer
The prevailing scientific explanation for the universe's origin is the Big Bang theory, which posits that the universe began approximately 13.8 billion years ago from an extremely hot and dense singularity. Initially, the universe was a point of infinite density which expanded rapidly. Over the course of billions of years, it cooled and led to the formation of subatomic particles and later atoms, eventually coalescing into stars and galaxies. The exact conditions preceding the Big Bang remain unknown, but evidence such as cosmic microwave background radiation supports this theory.
Step 4
With reference to the teachings of any ONE religion, explain how the universe came into being.
Answer
Taking Christianity as the reference, the belief system posits that God created the universe ex nihilo (out of nothing). The Genesis account describes a process of creation over six days, whereby God spoke the world into existence. On the first day, light was created; the subsequent days involved separating the sky from the sea, creating land, and populating it with various forms of life, culminating with the creation of humans, who were imbued with a divine essence. This narrative emphasizes a purposeful design and reflects the Christian belief in a personal creator.