He inquired whether they are asking us to believe that rocks found in natural surroundings are evidence of intelligent design. No, they are supposing the rocks provide evidence of early human presence.

The scientists he questions didn't claim supernatural involvement. They drew a reasonable hypothesis based upon observation coupled with previously accepted data. Plenty of evidence already indicates that early humans made artifacts from stone. Because rocks don't reproduce, it seems reasonable that 32 similarly chipped stones may have been altered by humans.

Now, if Mr. Thorpe simply disagrees with these scientists' conclusions, great. Others will also apply skepticism and further research. We'll want to see whether the hypothesis stands under scrutiny.

I don't imagine he meant to elevate early humans to the status of super-human intelligent beings. But did he forget what intelligent design means? It doesn't address early humans' attempts to alter their environment by creating stone tools. Of course, if rocks did reproduce, and there were evidence of change over generations, I can imagine how Mr. Thorpe might wish to believe an intelligent designer was involved.

Or maybe he was just teasing us.

Mike Bailey

Salt Lake City