The origin of man

I was interested to read R. Daryadi's letter Darwin's evolution theory (Jan. 22, 1997) and Garry Sinclair's reply Evolution obstacle (Jan. 27, 1997).

I can assure you that I do not accept the idea that I am a descendent of either apes or monkeys. And the question of exactly which species we are derived from misses the point. I have, incidentally, read one theory that the apes descended from early man, not vice-versa. The evidence supporting this is as strong as the Darwin (and neo-Darwinist) theory. Indeed it was fascinating to read from Mr. Sinclair's letter (who seems to have studied the theories more recently than I have) that proto-humans are now known to predate both monkeys and apes.

Neither my belief in evolution, nor my belief in God means I have an unscientific view of the world. We cannot deny that evolution played a role in the development of the Earth. It was in my late teens that I realized the faith needed to believe in chance as the creator of the universe was far greater than the faith required to believe in God. I have spent my life trying to understand God. I have been trying to transform mere "faith" into practical, useful knowledge.

In the context of evolution, it is important to question what kind of evolution is taking place and why it happens. It is also important to examine whether we are talking about evolution in terms of our physical or spiritual beings. And is evolution positive or negative and how can we reverse the negative effects?

I would also advise Mr. Sinclair, and those like him, not to be misled by Emmanuel Kant. Mr. Sinclair seems to accept Kant's theory when he says "a mere mortal is incapable of attaining more than a glimpse of the eternal truths of this being". In terms of belief in God, this is surely the case. Disciplined meditation can transform ignorance and "faith" into knowledge which has a practical effect in making us better people.

But I do have my own answers. I am certain that God's plan is not for me (or anyone else) to tell you what you should think. As The Jakarta Post reported recently, religious pluralism is sunnatollah - you must follow your own path to God.

I am not a sheep, so I do not look to "experts" to provide me with a belief. We were given intelligence so that we could develop our own direct perception of God and then choose to follow Him. Whether you're Moslem, Christian. Hindu or Buddhist, I respect your path to enlightenment and hope that serious contemplation of these questions will lead you to a better understanding of God and our task on Earth.

ROD LIVESEY

Tangerang, West Java