Which of the following is NOT used to indicate evidence for evolution?
1. vestigial traits
2. fossils
3. naturalistic fallacy
4. genetic relatedness
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is 3. naturalistic fallacy.
Explanation:
Evolutionary evidence comes from a variety of sources, including vestigial traits, fossils, and genetic relatedness, but the naturalistic fallacy is not one of them.
- Vestigial traits: These are traits or structures that have lost their original function through evolution. An example is the human appendix, which is a remnant of a larger cecum found in some herbivorous ancestors. Vestigial structures provide evidence of evolutionary change, showing that organisms have adapted to new environments or lifestyles over time.
- Fossils: Fossils are one of the most direct forms of evidence for evolution. They provide a historical record of life on Earth, showing how species have changed over time. Fossils help trace the development of organisms from simple forms to more complex ones, often revealing intermediate species that demonstrate transitional forms between major groups.
- Genetic relatedness: The DNA of different species can be compared to reveal how closely related they are. Species that share a significant amount of genetic material are likely to have evolved from a common ancestor. For example, humans and chimpanzees share about 98% of their DNA, suggesting a close evolutionary relationship.
- Naturalistic fallacy: This is a philosophical concept, not biological evidence. It refers to the mistaken idea that what is “natural” is necessarily “good” or “right.” This fallacy has nothing to do with supporting the theory of evolution, which relies on empirical evidence such as genetics, fossils, and anatomical similarities, not moral or ethical judgments about what is natural.
In summary, while vestigial traits, fossils, and genetic relatedness all provide solid evidence for evolution, the naturalistic fallacy is unrelated to scientific concepts of evolution.