Jeffrey Epstein: Why Study Evolution?

Evolution__Biologia_UEPB_by_resenhista Science philanthropist Jeffrey Epstein is well aware of the fact that, in some circles, there remains some uncertainty about the topic of evolution. For some, it is simply a question of why. Why invest money in studying evolution? Is there real merit that comes from furthering our collective understanding of this complex topic—or is the study of evolution little more than an intellectual flight of fancy?

For Mr. Epstein, the study of evolution is not just prudent but necessary. Studying evolution highlights how disease progresses for example and this can have a huge impact in numerous fields, from medicine and the economy to education and philanthropy. In fact, understanding how nature progresses and perpetuates is at the very heart of cutting edge research in both the sciences and social sciences.

Evolution and Health

There is a definite connection between the study of evolution, and the continued advance of medical research. By understanding how diseases change, and how the human body adapts in kind, doctors can better understand how many illnesses and maladies can be most effectively treated or prevented. The field of genetic evolution is a key example. By understanding how genes of cancerous cells mutate and adapt, researchers have been able to develop a host of secondary inhibitors to prevent those mutations from multiplying. This has had a huge impact on improving the long term survival rates of patients undergoing inhibitor therapy.

Indeed, evolutionary research has proven essential to the field of medicine, time and time again. It helps researchers develop antibodies, and offers insight into the virulence of various pathogens. Moreover, understanding evolution provides a better understanding of how human reproduction works, and how different reproductive problems can be averted.

Evolution and the Economy

Improving our understanding of evolution is also useful for helping our economy to thrive. If you need any evidence, think about agriculture as an industry. Scientists have shown that by applying evolutionary principles, they can eradicate various pestilences that destroy crops. Additionally, understanding how plant life evolves and adapts is crucial for genetically engineering the crops that need to thrive in different climates or reproduce at greater rates.

Indeed, evolution is at the heart of all nature based industries including, farming, geology, mining and timber.

Evolution and Education

Understanding evolution is a basic and necessary tenant for academic achievement. Simply put, evolution is a crucial concept—and a linking concept, one that ties together many of the most important concepts in science, from biology to chemistry and physics. Advanced Placement biology exams, for example, are based in evolutionary theory, and in some states, as much as a third of the exam is purely on the topic of evolution!

Even students who are not pursuing a career in science can benefit from learning about evolution. It is an immersive and mind-expanding concept, one that offers increased perspective in anthropology, ecology and more.

According to Jeffrey Epstein, the study of evolution is not something that we, as a culture, can afford to neglect. It is hardly the province of biologists alone. No, understanding our collective origins is vitally beneficial for all of us, which is why men like Jeffrey Epstein stand in such strong advocacy for the continued pursuit of evolutionary research and education.

Jeffrey Epstein provides educational facts on evolution on his website, or you check him out on his Tumblr!

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