Design Theory

Artificial Intelligence is here and provides a wealth of information quickly. It also is a source of interesting discussions as is shown in this e-book comparing evolution and the design theory which is based on the complexity of the universe and how certain perimeters have to be exactly what they are or life would not be able to exist. This complexity and preciseness points to the necessity of a designer, an intelligent mind that directed creation and the construction of the universe in such a way that we and all life can exist. I tried to get Bard, the AI I was working with, to admit that a designer was necessary but he would not come out and say that as it was not scientifically proven. He provided all the facts and admitted the probability of life just happening was almost nil but would not draw any conclusions.

We investigated the complexity of a cell to the complexity of the universe and physics and chemistry.  The complexity of a cell was compared to the complexity of a watch with Bard pointing out both needed to be precise and complex in order to work.  Following is a part of that discussion:

This was his response:

While watches are not the product of evolution, they are still an amazing feat of engineering. The parts of a watch work together in a precise and coordinated way, allowing the watch to keep accurate time. The design of a watch is also very elegant and efficient. It is a testament to the ingenuity of human beings that we have been able to create such a complex and sophisticated device.

Me : If the design of a watch is also very elegant and efficient. And it's a testament to the ingenuity of human beings that we have been able to create such a complex and sophisticated device, why doesn't the complexity and sophistication of a cell point to the ingenuity of a designer?  

The complexity and sophistication of a cell can certainly be seen as a testament to the ingenuity of a designer. After all, cells are incredibly complex and efficient, and they perform all of the functions necessary for life.

However, some people believe that the complexity of a cell can also be explained by evolution. They argue that the parts of a cell have gradually evolved over millions of years, and that they have been selected for if they gave cells an advantage, such as the ability to survive and reproduce more effectively.

Ultimately, whether you believe that the complexity of a cell is the result of evolution or the design of a creator is a matter of personal faith. There is no scientific evidence to support either claim.

Here are some of the arguments that people use to support the view that the complexity of a cell is evidence of a designer:

    The parts of a cell work together in a precise and coordinated way. This is not something that could have arisen by chance.
    The cell is incredibly complex. It is estimated that there are about 20,000 different genes in the human genome, and each gene codes for a protein. The proteins in a cell interact with each other in a complex way, allowing the cell to perform all of its functions.
    The cell is incredibly efficient. It can take in nutrients, convert them into energy, and use that energy to carry out its functions. It can also reproduce itself.

    The parts of a cell have gradually evolved over millions of years. This is supported by the fossil record, which shows that cells have changed over time.
    The parts of a cell are not perfect. They have flaws and limitations. This is evidence that they have not been designed by an intelligent being.
    The cell is not the only complex thing in the universe. There are many other complex things, such as stars and galaxies, that have not been designed by an intelligent being.

As you can see, there are strong arguments to be made on both sides of the debate. Ultimately, whether you believe that the complexity of a cell is evidence of evolution or the design of a creator is a matter of personal faith.

We then discussed the complexity of the galaxy, placement of planets, physical constants, and probabilities.  It makes for an interesting discussion and debate concerning how we even came to exist.  Read, learn, consider and like Bard keeps saying, It's up to you to weigh the facts and to decide.  Are we here by accident or by design??