Abstract

The article is divided into six parts. The introductory part deals with the issue of evolution and its role and function in the contemporary word. The author confirms the thesis, quoting the Pope’s standpoint, that evolution, no other contrasting theory in existence, has to be treated as the one and only plausible scientific theory which makes it possible to interpret the history of the Earth and man.

The second part is mainly occupied by the analysis of the pre-evolutionary traits in the history of Europe (dating from the ancient times) with the emphasis put on the theoretical assumptions of Lemark.

The main point presented in the third part concerns the essence and the main premises of the Darwinian theory.

In the part devoted to the point of view represented by the Pope Jan Paweł II, the author emphasizes once more the fact, that in the act of 1986. He officially supports the idea of uniting the theory of evolution with the church and theological assumptions.

Again the author emphasizes the outstanding intellectual courage of Jan Paweł II, who while holding such a responsible office, has not ceased to be a philosopher and an ethic. What is more, in the recent years he has even become a bioethic.