If we could force evolution, would it prove evolution?

[Stratego]

If we could force evolution, would it be strong proof of evolution?

If scientists are able to take an animal, let's say a chicken, and through a series of controlled laboratory conditions (but without the introduction of another animal's DNA) and create two separate species a few generations later, would it be strong proof of evolution? Would it be better evidence than what we currently have?

On one hand, it's a forced result, and in most other scientific experiments a forced result is not good evidence.

On the other hand, it demonstrates that one specie can turn into two over time.

What do you think?

[Homer]

Pretty certain they can already do this with fruit flies or bacteria etc.
It doesn't matter; the evidence for evolution is massive. Anyone who doesn't believe in it won't listen to any evidence or proof you provide.

[Aaron]

Hey Captain Science Panties.... what do you call dog breeding

[The Dude]

http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn1 ... e-lab.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E._coli_lo ... experiment

Also: http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2012/ ... earn-math/
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/21/science/21gene.html

1. First of all, it is natural evolution or just evolution. It's simply a controlled experiment where we are letting nature do the work by responding to changes. It's not like we are mutating their genes by injecting them with something.

2. And yes, it is obviously definitive evidence of evolution. You'd be more sane to deny gravity.

[John Galt]

[John Galt]

you show them evidence of it, how new species have evolved, and they say "well that's just microevolution". they change the goal posts on you. now you need to show how a raccoon turns into a chicken, or something obnoxious (and you can't even show that cladistically because well, that never happened)

[Spider]

Evolution doesn't need to be "proven". Its like proving that a gigantic ice sheet will melt. Ya, it might take a million years, but if the temperature went up, it will happen. It can't not happen. Thermodynamics.

The only way evolution doesn't happen is if its actively prevented from happening. And that doesn't happen any more than ice sheets generate their own refrigeration.

[John Galt]

well the problem is people conflate the theory of evolution by natural selection with the fact of evolution

[Stratego]

[eynon81]

as stated by others, we have and apparently it wasn't proof enough for some folks.