In 1859, Charles Darwin published, On the Origin of Species . In it, he argued that all of life on earth was the product of undirected natural processes. Time, chance, and natural selection. Since Darwin, biologists have relied on such processes to account for the origin of living things. Yet today, this approach is being challenged as never before. “Unlocking the Mystery of Life” is the story of top-notch, contemporary scientists who are advancing a powerful idea — “the theory of intelligent design.” Using state-of-the-art computer animation, “Unlocking the Mystery of Life” transports you into the interior of the living cell to explore systems and machines that bear the unmistakable hallmarks of design. Discover the intricacy of a microscopic bacterial rotary motor, which spins at 100,000 rpm. Within the nucleus explore the wonder of DNA, a thread-like molecule that stores instructions to build the essential components of every living organism. It is part of a biological information processing system more complex and more powerful than any computer network. This compelling documentary examines an idea with the power to revolutionize our understanding of life… and to unlock the mystery of its origin.
Buy “Unlocking The Mystery Of Life” For Only $10.99
May 21, 2008
#1
I was very upset as a resident of California (which recognizes creationism as an anthropological or philosophical study, rather that a scientific one) that this video was shown by my college professor (of a public school) in an intro to biology class. I intend to investigate further on the constitutionality of this — as well as contact the school dean and my city council.
Anyhow, this video addresses important flaws in Darwin’s age-old natural selection theory. The “holes” this documentary reveals are valid questions which should offer a great challenge to the field of evolutionary biology.
But this video takes Darwin’s arguments, puts them under the harshest scrutiny, and then proposes a so-called “alternative” theory that wouldn’t survive the scrutiny of a four year old.
Why is creationism bunk? First off, it is a cop out. The ancient Egyptians explained every natural phenomena through pagan creatures and spirits (why does the sun rise? Well the phoenix rises to light the day and rests to darken the night!). Had we not challenged these mythological beliefs, science would have taken a stand still thousands of years ago.
Secondly, creationism and the “argument from design” commit huge logical fallacies that simply cannot be overcome. If the universe is so vastly complex, as is life on this planet, then it must have been “designed”. Tell me then, this “designer” — with his capacity to fathom and create such complexity must too have a designer, no? The argument from design must take further steps to explain this — and the theory itself then becomes completely unsatisfying. Many people would simply say that this “designer” is the ‘uncaused cause’ — the mover of things who does not need a mover. That theory might be worth something, but explain why the universe itself is not the
“uncaused cause”….
Basically, these intelligent design theories are coined by a group of insecure, aging, second-rate scientists who are angry that they don’t have the answers. They therefore invent some answer that cannot possibly be challenged, because it is beyond the realm of human investigation. Well to them I would like to say: YOUR theory – YOU carry the burden of proof. Quit shaming science with your superstitions.
May 21, 2008
#2
I was not really into these movies. Too biological and mundane.
May 21, 2008
#3
How can other reviewers call this material “compelling science”, when 99.86% of scientists engaged in the life sciences believe that this is pseudo-scientific claptrap? Including Christian scientists?
May 21, 2008
#4
As an Australian I find it difficult to imagine anybody watching this pseudo science without laughing. Americans on the other hand seem to enjoy deluding themselves for some higher purpose. I wouldn’t have written a review had I not been misled into thinking that this was a science DVD. It is not. If you are a devout muslim, jew or christian watch it with your kids and have them comment on the fallacies and poor reasoning – just for kicks. A waste of money otherwise.
May 21, 2008
#5
Flashy production values and clever computer animation cannot hide the fact that this presentation is very long on wishful thinking and very short on actual science. As should be obvious to anyone viewing the program, this is nothing but Creationism trying to give itself an air of scientific respectability. However, to do so, the proponents of so-called “intelligent design” must stoop to fallacious reasoning, selective omission of fact, and appeals to ignorance rather than reason.
Anyone brought into the fold via this…will only have been converted by deceit. This product, and indeed “intelligent design” itself, is an affront to rational thinking and a direct insult to any person of faith who is not swayed by empty arguments.
Avoid this program in all its forms, whether on VHS, DVD, or on PBS.