Why is Darwin's theory of evolution important?

Answer 1

Many of its advocates zealously consider Darwin's theory as fact, and they may be a little overly enthused. The theory may prove, as it has so far, difficult to topple, or it may come crashing down with some new insight. Only time will tell. But it is really important for other reasons. Darwin came upon the scene rather explosively, and made it respectable to question on the most basic levels ideas that up to his time were considered the exclusive province of religion. Not only that, but his ideas inspired many to consider disciplines unrelated to Biology in a whole new light.

The fascinating and important creative dialogues and tensions between religion and the philosophy of science are, theoretically and ideally, never completely at odds. This is true because science properly done can never, in the long run, refute the fundamental truths that are genuinely established through faith and sacred writ. These dialogues always serve to keep ethical scientists on their toes, and they help in the completely clear and objective interpretation of observed and generated scientific data.