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Does evolution violate the 2nd law of thermodynamics?

Topics: Evolution Religion Physics Science

Background

The 2nd law of thermodynamics states that entropy increases over time, or that a closed system moves from an ordered state to a random state. Critics of evolution suggest that life itself is prima facie proof that evolution is flawed, since the opposite appears to be happening - life has evolved from primordial soup to sophisticated creatures like ourselves. Defenders of evolution say that this objection is based on a misunderstanding of entropy.

Implications

Expert Opinions

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Quote

Engineer

The creationist position would necessarily discard the entire mathematical framework of thermodynamics and would provide no basis for the engineering design of turbines, refrigeration units, industrial pumps, etc. It would do away with the well-developed mathematical relationships of physical chemistry, including the effect of temperature and pressure on equilibrium constants and phase changes.

01 Jan 1995 Source

Disagree

Edward A. Morris

Born Again Christian, Software Engineer

I am amazed at how many Christians claim that the theory of evolution violates the Second Law of Thermodynamics. This can be clearly shown to be false. There may well be some good, valid arguments against evolution, but claiming that it violates the Second Law is not one of them.

06 May 2001 Source