Devolution Redux

[colewd (Bill Cole)]

@Rumraket

Now a genetic “loss” of function can result in a gain of function at the phenotypic level. A mutation that renders a regulatory element incapable of binding where it did previously, can have the effect of altering some morphological structure, like a limb, so it allows an organism to swim and adapt to life in water or whatever. Then whales can “devolve” from terrestrial mammals and things to that effect.

This is an interesting point.

Would the case you made require other new functions in addition to what is lost? How many morphological changes are required to make this transition?

If the argument is this is a unique new design than it fits Behe’s method. The whale contains a purposefully arranged set of parts in order to live in an aquatic environment.