Skeptics Exposed: Unveiling the Truth for Christian Believers

Be Skeptical About Skeptics!

Part 3: Fridges and Hot Air

In this article, we will explore the misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding the argument of thermodynamics and evolution presented by skeptics. Dr. Ken Smith attempts to rebuff creationists' use of basic and well-established principles of nature in his book chapter titled "Thermodynamics and Evolution." However, his arguments reveal a lack of understanding of the creationist viewpoint.

One common argument made by skeptics is that a flow of energy alone can produce growth in complexity. They often refer to examples like a seedling growing into a plant, claiming that this demonstrates how energy (sunlight) flowing into an open system (the Earth) can lead to increased complexity. However, this argument overlooks the need for a programmed mechanism to harness and direct the random energy. Creationists have long emphasized the importance of this mechanism.

Dr. Smith dismisses the creationist argument of a programmed mechanism by pointing to orderly patterns of airflow in the atmosphere. He suggests that these patterns arise simply because there is an input of energy from the sun. While it is true that energy can create ordered structures like eddies and whirlpools in a fast-moving river, this has little relevance to the growth of biological complexity.

To support his point, Dr. Smith brings up the example of food in a refrigerator. He claims that as long as there is energy supplied from the mains, the food stays fresh, but without energy, it turns into a disorderly mess. At first glance, this example might seem to support Dr. Smith's argument that energy alone is sufficient. However, upon closer examination, it actually reinforces the creationist viewpoint.

If energy were all that was needed to keep food fresh, why not simply open the refrigerator door and blow in hot air with a fan heater? After all, this would be a flow of energy. But we all know that random energy pouring into a system would only increase the tendency towards disorder and destructurization of matter. It is clear that a specific mechanism, such as the complex cooling mechanism in a refrigerator, is required to harness the energy and maintain order.

To put it simply, water naturally flows downhill, but it can be pumped uphill by a motor and the right machinery. Similarly, complex machines can arise from simple matter through appropriate programmed machinery. Living things are capable of making copies of themselves through this process. However, the programmed machinery itself cannot emerge from non-living matter without such a mechanism. To achieve that would require the direct input of a mind or intelligence.

It is important to consider the implications of these arguments. Believing that the complexity of living things could arise merely from a flow of energy on a primitive Earth is highly unscientific. Every observable result of science points to the fact that such energy would only worsen the problem for evolutionists, just as blowing hot air towards food would make it more disorderly.

Why This Matters: Understanding the flaws in the skeptics' arguments regarding thermodynamics and evolution is crucial for maintaining a consistent Christian perspective on creation. By recognizing the necessity of a programmed mechanism to harness and direct energy, we can appreciate the divine design and purpose behind all living things.

Think About It: Consider how the existence of orderly patterns in nature, such as airflow in the atmosphere or the functionality of refrigerators, points to an intelligent Creator who designed systems to maintain order and complexity. Reflect on how these examples challenge evolutionary explanations and reinforce the biblical perspective on creation.