Introduction

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Kristin on February 12, 2010 at 7:18pm

I have joined the Parenting Little Heathens group. Today I posted something on my fb page about it being Darwin Day, & my sister-in-law posted something I know was in response that because today was Darwin's birthday, she was coming out to say that she believes in Jesus and creation and that she wasn't descended from a "dumb ape." While I had to restrain myself from responding that (a) apes aren't dumb (b) no human is descended from an ape any more than she is descended from her cousins, we just share a common ancestor, I thought to myself that I cannot wait for the day when my son can correct her (and her kids) for me! I want him to decide for himself what he wants to believe and how he wants to label himself, but I also cannot wait until his "dinosaur phase"! Because I still <3 dinosaurs!

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Jared Lardo on February 13, 2010 at 1:04pm

It would be more accurate to say that she not only is descended from "dumb apes" but still is one (both an ape and dumb). For humans to "not be descended from apes" requires that "ape" refers exclusively to modern, non-human apes. Unless the most recent common ancestor of modern, non-human apes and modern, human apes had a tail (was a monkey), then I can't honestly see any differentiation between modern and past apes as legitimate when speaking on the origin of species.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Kristin on February 13, 2010 at 5:44pm

Understood! When I saw "ape" I did assume she meant modern apes. I also assume she would be one of those who would expect to find a half-cat/half-dog as the only acceptable "transitional form." If she even ever thought about "transitional forms," which is doubtful.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Name Here on February 12, 2010 at 6:57pm

Welcome to Atheist Nexus Kristin! You may be interested in these Nexus groups: Pennsylvania Atheists, Pennsylvania Nonbelievers and Parenting Little Heathens.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Sigmund on February 13, 2010 at 12:45pm

Good for you! Welcome.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Michael Lange on February 13, 2010 at 1:10pm

Welcome! I'm a recent newcomer here too!

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by J S H on February 13, 2010 at 6:55pm

Welcome, glad to have you.

• ▶ Reply