Life On Earth, Science Vs Religion

[jd_1984]

I don't wish to denigrate any individuals beliefs, but I am curious how this story is received by those who follow religion and the origins of the earth taught through religion.

Do some Christians take the biblical accounts of creation literally, believing that they describe exactly how the universe and human beings were created.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/life-earth-started-300-million-6664589

[jomifl]

ZM /At last, this thread has turned sensible. /
are you sure?

[Khandro]

jomifl; You quote me as saying "and anyway, insufficient is known about what actually constitutes sleep in some creatures./" and claim this to be "controversial". In saying this I'm only reflecting what you yourself said about swallows and someone else said about dolphins earlier, about sleeping on half of the brain, and is something I personally know nothing about but I give you both the benefit of the doubt.
I stick completely to my thesis that all what we consider to be animals - domestic and wild - excluding those which have no, or hardly any, brain, not only have to sleep, but all dream (and I now can include the anteater). This is obviously of paramount importance not only to humans but them too and we don't have a clue as to why it is necessary, unless that is you do.

[jomifl]

OK Khandro, that is undoubtedly your thesis and using your criteria for what an animal is and what a brain is you will still have a devil of a job proving it. You argument seems to be becoming rather circular since you have modified the generally accepted criteria for defining an animal and a brain to fit your thesis. Would that science was that easy..
By the way Hypo did mention some ideas as to why sleep may be necessary in some creatures.

[jomifl]

You may find that this raises some interesting philosophical questions;
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090413185734.htm

[jomifl]

how are we doing jd?

[jd_1984]

This is great.
I haven't been on much over last few days, but will have a read through as much as I can.
Naturally this subject is quite emotive for some. On the other hand it is very literal and clear to others. There is then those who enjoy a bit of controversy.