Actually, AC is correct. Evolution over short periods of time is a valid theory (punctuated equilibrium). Besides, since evolution is defined as the change in gene ratios within a population, then those one generation pandemics are definitely a selective force.
As for weak genes being selected for, who's to say what will be 'weak' in the future. It's a well known fact that the 'weak' gene for sickle cell anemia is protection against malaria, and it's highly possible that cystic fibrosis is common in Europeans because it offered protection from the plague.
Maybe the defective genes of today will be an advantage in the future.
I've got to get on here sooner; I was going to post this point. However, I am consoled by the prospect of billing myself as the OLDEST (collection of) HUMAN (molecules) IN THE WORLD! If there are people out there buying the oldest knives, there's got to be a couple who'd pay five bucks for my show.
NASA definitely needs a little good PR; that 1 in a 1000 stat didn't go over well with the general public. You can't expect the G.P. to understand that it's only if another gyroscope goes out.
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Actually, AC is correct. Evolution over short periods of time is a valid theory (punctuated equilibrium). Besides, since evolution is defined as the change in gene ratios within a population, then those one generation pandemics are definitely a selective force.
As for weak genes being selected for, who's to say what will be 'weak' in the future. It's a well known fact that the 'weak' gene for sickle cell anemia is protection against malaria, and it's highly possible that cystic fibrosis is common in Europeans because it offered protection from the plague.
Maybe the defective genes of today will be an advantage in the future.
I've got to get on here sooner; I was going to post this point. However, I am consoled by the prospect of billing myself as the OLDEST (collection of) HUMAN (molecules) IN THE WORLD! If there are people out there buying the oldest knives, there's got to be a couple who'd pay five bucks for my show.
(Shameless troll-bait)
NASA definitely needs a little good PR; that 1 in a 1000 stat didn't go over well with the general public. You can't expect the G.P. to understand that it's only if another gyroscope goes out.