Machina ammonita by Paul D. Stewart
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Machina ammonita by Paul D. Stewart
Inspired by William Paleys inference of a creator from the mechanisms of nature, and a bad pun from Descartes view of non-human organisms as machina anima. A pyritized ammonite is fused with an 18th century pocket watch mechanism by the photographer. Paley began his book on natural theology by stating that a watch found on a heath while walking would give proof of a designer while a stone would not, just as complex natural creation gives proof of God. Dawkins mentions this logic in " The Blind Watchmaker" and goes on to evoke evolution by natural selection as the mechanism for achieving complex design
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6319169
© PAUL D STEWART/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Adaptation Ammonite Descartes Evolution Fossil Natural Theology
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this thought-provoking print titled "Machina Ammonita" photographer Paul D. Stewart skillfully combines elements of nature, philosophy, and science to ignite contemplation about the intricate mechanisms of creation. Inspired by William Paley's inference of a creator from the mechanisms found in nature, as well as Descartes' view on non-human organisms as machina anima (living machines), Stewart merges an 18th-century pocket watch mechanism with a pyritized ammonite fossil. The fusion of these two distinct objects symbolizes the interplay between evolution and adaptation that has shaped life on Earth. Paley famously argued that finding a watch on a heath would provide evidence for a designer, while a mere stone would not. Richard Dawkins later referenced this logic in his book "The Blind Watchmaker" invoking evolution by natural selection as the driving force behind complex design. Stewart's photograph invites viewers to reflect upon the complexity and beauty inherent in both natural creations and man-made inventions. It prompts us to question our place within this grand tapestry of existence and consider how scientific discoveries can deepen our understanding of spirituality. "Machina Ammonita" serves as an artistic testament to the interconnectedness between science, philosophy, and theology—a reminder that even seemingly disparate realms can converge to reveal profound insights into our world's origins and purpose.
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