Quote by Richard Dawkins

My main reason for scepticism about the Huxley/Sagan theory is that the human brain is demonstrably eager to see faces in random patterns, as we know from scientific evidence, on top of the numerous legends about faces of Jesus, or the Virgin Mary, or Mother Teresa, being seen on slices of toast, or pizzas, or patches of damp on a wall. This eagerness is enhanced if the pattern departs from randomness in the specific direction of being symmetrical.

My main reason for scepticism about the Huxley/Sagan theory

Summary

The quote suggests skepticism towards the Huxley/Sagan theory, primarily due to the human brain's propensity to see faces in random patterns. Supported by scientific evidence and examples like sightings of faces on toast or walls, it highlights the brain's innate inclination to perceive familiar shapes in randomness. Moreover, the brain's eagerness to recognize symmetrical patterns further strengthens this tendency. This observation questions the validity of the Huxley/Sagan theory, which posits that the presence of symmetry in patterns is evidence of intelligent design rather than a natural occurrence driven by the brain's inherent predisposition.

Topics

Religion Science Evolution Evidence Theory Carl Sagan Sir Julian Huxley

By Richard Dawkins

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