EVOLUTION, EVOLUTIONISM. Transformism, or Evolutionism, means the theory of the transformation of species only, but evolution is a more general and universal theory which is applied to the physical world, to the realm of ethics, to man and to society (Spencer). Absolute evolutionism is not justified by physical science which has established without doubt the stability of species, without ever discovering veritable specific transformations; moreover, it is condemned by metaphysics which refuses to admit that effects can be more perfect than their efficient causes; and “extreme” evolution denies the special act of creation of life, attributing the whole process to a natural development from inorganic matter. The doctrine of the natural development of all the species of the animal and vegetable world from a few primitive types created by God is moderate evolution. Catholics are free to believe in moderate evolution, excluding the evolution of man. Animals, as distinguished from man, are devoid of reason. Hence the animal soul, i.e., the principle which gives an animal life, is essentially material. Hence, man's soul, though depending on material things for its activities, being essentially spiritual, the evolution of man as a whole from the lower animal is impossible.