Six Definitions of Evolution?


One of the unique features of a Kent Hovind argument is the Six Definitions of Evolution.  These definitions can not be found in any science book and should not to be confused with Evolution Theory.  You will find these definitions used in Hovind's seminars and debates and also as part of Hovind's infamous $250,000 Challenge to "prove evolution" as defined by Hovind.

Cosmic Evolution - This is what Hovind calls the Big Bang model.  This is not related to Evolution Theory.  Hovind is notorious for misrepresenting what the Big Bang model actually claims (See here and here).  The irony is that Hovind claims "physics proves" the ideas of Russell Humphries, a Young Earth Creationist, show the Universe originated out of a singularity (white hole) in much the same manner as the Big Bang expansion.

Chemical Evolution - Hovind's name for nucleosynthesis which is the formation of elements in the fusion reactions of stars. This is not part of Evolution Theory.  Hovind claims that only lighter elements up to iron can be formed by this process.  He overlooks there are alternative pathways that occur in supernova that have the capacity to form the heavier elements.

Stellar Evolution - This is Hovind's fancy name for basic star formation.  This has nothing to do with Evolution Theory.  Hovind claims star births have never been observed.  He claims that all photographs of young-like stars in dust clouds "getting brighter" is just the dust moving.  Looks like a young star, acts like a young star, is in the right place for a young star ...... but it's just dust.

Organic Evolution - Hovind's title for abiogenesis.  This is not covered by Evolution Theory.  Hovind erroneously claims the formation the basic life is the same as Spontaneous Generation which was the idea that baby mice were formed in flour, etc.

Macro Evolution - This is covered by Evolution Theory.  However, Hovind has added the strange definition "changing from one kind to another".  This definition is not found in any science book because there is no such classification as a "kind".  

Micro Evolution - This is also covered by Evolution Theory. But again, Hovind has included the undefined classification of "kind" into his definition.

To the untrained eye, Hovind's definitions have the appearance of sounding very technical but closer examination shows they reflect the perspective of Kent Hovind rather than a representation of wider scientific usage.