What is evolution? How do we observe it in the natural world? Understanding the Principles of Evolution is an exhibit which delves into the theory of evolution, the evidence for evolution, and how scientists use evolution to better understand life on Earth. Often misunderstood, evolution is a fascinating theory used by scientists to explain how life changes and adapts.
Regarding evolution, leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have stated, “The Church has no official position on the theory of evolution. Organic evolution, or changes to species’ inherited traits over time, is a matter for scientific study. Nothing has been revealed concerning evolution. Though the details of what happened on earth before Adam and Eve, including how their bodies were created, have not been revealed, our teachings regarding man’s origin are clear and come from revelation.” (New Era Oct 2016)
The exhibit Understanding the Principles of Evolution is an exploration of how scientists interpret the theory of evolution and does not establish the doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Visitors are encouraged to consider how natural selection plays a part in nature to help animals, plants, and other life forms adapt. We at the Bean Life Science Museum hope this exhibit will help to spark conversations among our guests as they ask, “What is evolution?”
More information about how BYU's Faculty are working to build bridges between religion and science can be found at Reconciling Evolution