Some Salient Points in the Science of the EarthDawson, John William, Sir
Science
Some Salient Points in the Science of the Earth
Dawson, John William, Sir
Geology; Paleontology
A third illustration of the partial character of these hypotheses may
be taken from the use made of the theory deduced from modern physical
discoveries, that life must be merely a product of the continuous
operation of physical laws. The assumption for it is nothing more
that the phenomena of life are produced merely by some arrangement
of physical forces, even if it be admitted to be true, gives only a
partial explanation of the possible origin of life. It does not account
for the fact that life, as a force, or combination of forces, is set in
antagonism to all other forces. It does not account for the marvellous
connection of life with organization. It does not account for the
determination and arrangement of forces implied in life. A very simple
illustration may make this plain. If the problem to be solved were the
origin of the mariner's compass, one might assert that it is wholly a
physical arrangement, both as to matter and force. Another might assert
that it involves mind and intelligence in addition. In some sense
both would be right. The properties of magnetic force and of iron or
steel are purely physical, and it might even be within the bounds of
possibility that somewhere in the universe a mass of natural lodestone
may have been so balanced as to swing in harmony with the earth's
magnetism. Yet we would surely be regarded as very credulous if we
could be induced to believe that the mariner's compass has originated
in that way. This argument applies with a thousandfold greater force to
the origin of life, which involves even in its simplest forms so many
more adjustments of force and so much more complex machinery.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account