The challenge of evolutionary biology

Abstract

This article focuses on the challenge posed by Darwinian evolutionary theory in two respects. It aims to show that the challenge of evolutionary biology is not simply a matter of the history of science, but retains its seriousness and urgency for contemporary thought. This becomes clear from the discussion of the extent of the Darwinian challenge to religion, politics, philosophy and even evolutionary biology itself. The challenge to religion that proves to be most fundamental is rooted in the tension between reason and revelation. The challenge to politics is twofold: (1) insofar as political theories, ideologies and concepts are based on anthropological presuppositions; and (2) insofar as the findings of evolutionary biology stand to affect the opinions of citizens regarding religion, morality and politics.