"Is Evolution an Open Question for Catholics?"
Kolbe Center for the Study of Creation
Paper given by Gerry Keane at the Kolbe Center Second International Conference, Arlington, Virginia USA, Oct 18-20, 2002
Many Catholics assert that the Catholic Church regards evolution as an open question. They tend to say, “Evolution is acceptable as long as God was involved and Pius XII taught in his 1950 encyclical Humani Generis that evolution is an open question!” On the contrary, I submit that evolution per se - correctly defined - is no longer an open question scientifically. It is only the investigation into the possible origin of the human body as coming from pre-existent and living matter that has not yet been closed by Rome. The objective truth known from scientific evidence and theological arguments contradicts evolution.
Parallel Between Pius XII and Paul VI
There is a limited parallel between Pius XII’s 1950’s treatment of evolution and Paul VI’s 1960’s treatment of Pill contraception. Both Popes confronted doctrinal dissenters and both sought research and discussion of the respective matters. The Catholic Church had of course long before then already permitted discussion of evolution but Pius XII gave a specific reason for allowing the investigation.
John XXIII appointed a Commission in March, 1963, to study the subject of birth control, but Paul VI continued its mandate and greatly increased its numbers. Birth control has never been an open question doctrinally, and yet Rome decided that the advice of experts was required concerning the then revolutionary Pill manner of contraception. Why? Because more detailed information was sought from a scientific perspective about the new development, and theological advice as to any impact on Church doctrine. Permission to research and debate Pill contraception was one thing, but this permission did not equate to the wider issue of birth control per se being regarded as an open question doctrinally for Catholics; the Church had already taught that Catholics are not free to indulge in birth control.