Theistic evolution facts for kids
Theistic evolution, also known as evolutionary creationism, is a way of understanding how God or a higher power might have created the world and all living things. It's the idea that God used the process of evolution to bring about the different species we see on Earth. This belief suggests that science, like evolution, doesn't have to go against the idea of a creator. Instead, it sees evolution as a tool or method God used.
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What is Theistic Evolution?
Theistic evolution combines two big ideas: the belief in a creator (like God) and the scientific understanding of how life changes over time (evolution). People who believe in theistic evolution think that God started the universe and guided the natural processes, including evolution, to create the amazing diversity of life. They don't see a conflict between their faith and science.
How is it Different from Other Views?
Theistic evolution is different from other ideas about creation and evolution.
Theistic Evolution vs. Creationism
Some people believe in "creationism," which often means God created everything exactly as it is now, sometimes in a very short period. This view usually doesn't accept the idea of evolution. Theistic evolution, however, fully accepts the scientific evidence for evolution. It just adds the idea that God was behind the whole process.
Theistic Evolution vs. Atheistic Evolution
On the other hand, "atheistic evolution" is the view that evolution happened purely by natural processes, without any divine involvement. People who hold this view often don't believe in God. Theistic evolution agrees with the science of evolution but believes that God was the guiding force or designer behind it all. It sees God as working through natural laws.
Key Ideas of Theistic Evolution
People who support theistic evolution often share a few main ideas:
- They believe God created the universe and everything in it.
- They accept the scientific theory of evolution as the way life developed.
- They think that God used natural laws and processes, like evolution, to achieve creation.
- They don't see science and faith as enemies but as different ways of understanding the world.
History of Theistic Evolution
The idea of combining religious faith with scientific discoveries about Earth's age and life's development started to become more common in the 19th century. As scientists like Charles Darwin presented strong evidence for evolution, many religious thinkers began to explore how their beliefs could fit with these new scientific understandings. They looked for ways to see God's hand in the long, gradual process of evolution rather than in a sudden, instant creation.
Images for kids
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In the 19th century, geology and paleontology were still connected to Old Earth creationism. The above depicts a brutal world of deep time, existing before Adam and Eve, from Thomas Hawkins' book on plesiosaurs. Artist: John Martin, 1840
See also
In Spanish: Evolución teísta para niños
