Below is the uncorrected machine-read text of this chapter, intended to provide our own search engines and external engines with highly rich, chapter-representative searchable text of each book. Because it is UNCORRECTED material, please consider the following text as a useful but insufficient proxy for the authoritative book pages.
C h a p t e r f o u r conclusion Science and science-based technologies have transformed modern life. They have led to major improvements in living standards, public welfare, health, and security. They have changed how we view the universe and how we think about ourselves in relation to the world around us. Biological evolution is one of the most important ideas of modern science. Evolution is supported by abundant evidence from many different fields of sci- entific investigation. It underlies the modern biological sciences, including the biomedical sciences, and has applications in many other scientific and engineer- ing disciplines. As individuals and societies, we are now making decisions that will have profound consequences for future generations. How should we balance the need to preserve the Earthâs plants, animals, and natural environment against other pressing concerns? Should we alter our use of fossil fuels and other natu- ral resources to enhance the well-being of our descendants? To what extent should we use our new understanding of biology on a molecular level to alter the characteristics of living things? None of these decisions can be made wisely without considering biological evolution. People need to understand evolution, its role within the broader sci- entific enterprise, and its vital implications for some of the most pressing social, cultural, and political issues of our time. Science and technology are so pervasive in modern society that students increasingly need a sound education in the core concepts, applications, and implications of science. Because evolution has and will continue to serve as a critical foundation of the biomedical and life sciences, helping students learn about and understand the scientific evidence, mechanisms, and implications of evolution are fundamental to a high-quality science education. Science and religion are different ways of understanding. Needlessly placing them in opposition reduces the potential of both to contribute to a better future. â Science, Evolution, and Creationism 47