We believe that questing for further light and knowledge leads, ultimately, to harmony between revelation and research, between academic and spiritual means of knowing, between scripture and science. This book provides information for sincere seekers on the science of evolution in light of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Some may feel compelled to choose between truths learned in biology and truths of religion. We do not claim to know how all truths relate or reconcile, but we know from our own experience that we do not have to choose between them. In this book, we seek to establish what we know from a religious standpoint, what we know from a scientific standpoint, and how we can bring these two epistemologies together in order to be one of the “best books” from which seekers can learn “by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118). Every chapter was selected in light of and in fidelity to revealed truths.
Throughout the history of evolutionary science, Church leaders and members have espoused a variety of personal views. At the same time, the Church has constantly maintained the revealed truth that God planned for the eternal life of people and therefore created us on purpose, while also maintaining that “nothing has been revealed concerning evolution.”¹ Within that space, this book intentionally shows that accepting evolution as a valid scientific theory is among the legitimate, faithful choices a person can make while maintaining faith in the restored scriptural truths of God’s creative work and plan.