In article <1991Nov1.171612.4442 at gpu.utcs.utoronto.ca>
lamoran at gpu.utcs.utoronto.ca (L.A. Moran) writes:
>... I propose the following definition;
>> Biological evolution is the process of change in the genetic
> makeup of a population.
>>This definition is necessary and sufficient (IMHO).
Consider the molecules in a glass of water. Over time they rearrange
themselves (if the water is not frozen). This is similar to random mutation
and drift in a population. So your definition includes changes which have no
phenotypic result at all. Surely the rearrangements of molecules in a glass of
water are not an interesting kind of "evolution". Why not simply call the
genetic changes 'mutations' and be precise about it? Shouldn't the term
'evolution' be reserved for something more important?
Tom Schneider
National Cancer Institute
Laboratory of Mathematical Biology
Frederick, Maryland 21702-1201
toms at ncifcrf.gov
