Divine Creations: Unveiling the Wonders of Computer Technology in Christian Faith
Published: 07 April 2024
Creation's Amazing Computer
Computers show that evolution has an information problem. The belief that certain biological structures have evolved from others poses a problem for evolutionists. They need to explain where the information comes from to effect such transformations. This problem can be illustrated by looking at computers, which have two main components: hardware and software. Hardware consists of physical parts like screws, wires, circuit boards, screens, and magnetic disks. Software, on the other hand, refers to the programs that make a computer perform specific operations.
The Importance of Information
In the world of computers, the difference between a blank disk and a disk with software lies in the arrangement of magnetic patterns. The patterns on a blank disk are meaningless, but when arranged in a certain way, they become software that is meaningful to the computer. The key distinction between the two is information. To write software onto a disk, we must provide information on how to arrange those patterns.
Similarly, in nature, we observe hardware in the form of flesh-and-blood bodies in animals and leaves and branches in trees. Software can be seen as the information that arranges the basic building blocks of life, forming a living creature.
The Information Problem for Biological Evolution
The challenge for biological evolution arises when considering structures that allegedly evolved from one another. For example, the claim that scales evolved into feathers raises questions about the information required for such a transformation. Let's take scales and feathers as an example. There are three elements involved:
- The genetic code for scales.
- The genetic code for feathers.
- The process that handles genetic information through reproduction, growth, and repair.
The problem becomes evident when we compare the information in elements 1 and 2. These two codes are different; one is not a subset of the other. However, element 3—the process—does not include the information needed to transform scales into feathers. It faithfully reproduces the data from either element 1 or element 2.
The Role of Random Mutations and Natural Selection
In the computer industry, we are familiar with random mutations, which we call "corruptions" because they are never beneficial. Checks are built into computer systems to detect and correct these corruptions. If we allow them to occur, an order for "Mickey Mouse watches" may become something like "Mjckfz Movsl W'tdx!"—meaningless gibberish. However, the order would never transform into something completely different, like "cordless electric drills." Computers can generate data randomly, but only in the form of meaningless garbage. Meaningful information can only come from an intelligent source.
In the same way, genetic programs in living organisms do not change the genetic data. Experience has shown us that they faithfully reproduce the original pattern. Random mutations only introduce confusion and corruption into the genetic data—they never create new forms. The information required for feathers and scales is distinct, just as Mickey Mouse watches and cordless electric drills are different. Mickey Mouse watches have not evolved into more advanced forms.
Natural selection also does not alter genetic data. It simply causes variations or rearrangements of existing data. This means that even if we observe similarities between species or transitional forms, it does not address the fundamental issue—the mechanism for change that requires the addition of new information from an intelligent source. Thus, a Creator must exist to provide the necessary information in the first place.
The Need for a Programmer
Computer programs do not create themselves; someone needs to create them. Similarly, the genetic program in living creatures cannot spontaneously generate itself; it requires programming by a creator. Despite this, many people deny their own Creator even though they witness the things they themselves have created. The Apostle Paul reminds us that through creation, we can understand and see God's eternal power and divine nature.
Why This Matters
Understanding the information problem in biological evolution is crucial because it challenges the notion that complex structures and systems can arise solely through natural processes. It highlights the need for an intelligent source to provide the necessary information for these transformations. This has implications not only for our understanding of the origin of life but also for our worldview and beliefs about our place in the universe.
Think About It
Consider the analogy of a computer program and genetic code. Just as a computer program requires an intelligent programmer, does it make sense that the genetic program in living creatures emerged without a Creator? Reflect on the complexity and diversity of life around you. How does this shape your perspective on the existence of a Creator?
