Signature in the Cell, ch. 16-20

Chapter 16 offers a great illustration with the lock. The best explanation for the phenomenon of a student opening a lock with is that he knows the code, not that he guessed correctly. The idea is that chance is eliminated as a viable option for why complex specificity exists. Intelligent Design is a much better explanation.

Chapter 17 considers some of the common criticisms of ID. Some have claimed it is an argument from ignorance; which it does not. He considers how some believe ID limits science by saying 'never' on certain processes; Meyer shows how actually the objectors limit. He considers the idea that a personality has interfered in the processes; but this ultimately does not deal with the issue. After all, who designed the designer. At the end of the day, we see in the objections that "behind every double standard lies a single hidden agenda."

Chapter 18 considers whether or not ID is science. At the heart, the assertion that ID is not science makes it an issue of semantics rather than a search for truth. If God is part of reality, then it is scientific to consider his activities. However, if we assume only naturalistic explanations, then we cannot see how God could fit into the picture of science by definition. Offering 6 reasons for believing ID is indeed scientific, Meyer concludes that it really depends on how you define science.

Chapter 19 takes on defeaters of ID as science. Meyer maintains that there are no good reasons to consider ID unscientific without begging the question. Meyer continues to argue against objections, most notably, Observation and Testability. The truly unscientific is to exclude the existence of God from scientific endeavors.

Chapter 20 expresses finally the importance of this subject. Why is ID an acceptable explanation in light of the controversies (particularly in schools)? Meyers suggests that it is not a religion, but does have theistic implications. It does, however, get personal, even down to core values and beliefs in popular Western worldviews: naturalism. However, the information-rich signature in the cell requires a better explanation than the mire of chance hypothesis. That explanation is found in ID.