I picked this question because I believe the answers would show just how different we are; allowing us to exemplify that we can collaborate, co exist and even be friends while having VERY different and detailed opinions about what can so often cause major rifts in our society.  With two relatively liberal and two relatively conservative women on our team, we find many issues that cause us to “spat” and at times get rubbed the wrong way.  But through at all, we find a commonality in life and living and challenges and are able to bind together, support one another and put aside our differences.  So how would you answer this weeks question . . . If man evolved from monkeys and apes, why do we still have monkeys and apes?
Jeanette I believe the Theology on this one. As a believer in Christ I think that God made apes, monkeys and humans to coexist together in this crazy world. So all has been said.
Hope I don’t believe that we evolved from monkeys or apes or any other animal species. I believe in Creationism as detailed in the Bible. I find this simplified version very helpful when discussing this question of evolution versus creation with my children and find it inspiring that God created us in His image.
CJ We didn’t evolve from apes and monkeys; we evolved from a common ancestor of the chimpanzee. In addition to having a similar body structure and behavioral habits (such as rearing young and familial groupings) we also share 98% of the same DNA as chimpanzees. Monkeys and apes are still around because they have sustainable habitats and their lifestyles are prolific. Personally, I am more surprised that humans are still around considering our species is one of the few that actually intentionally kills one another; most others animals only participate in ritualized fights for rank, dominance, or to defend their territories. Occasionally one will die as a result of these rituals, however, premeditation is not a part of it.
Maria I believe it is always good to have a point of reference and acknowledge and respect change. Nothing in life is stagnant. With adaptation comes knowledge and growth. We will continue to evolve. Monkeys and apes also serve to humble us, so that we are reminded of our more simple, yet very important basic needs.