Comparative, continuity, and computational evidence in evolutionary theory: Predictive evidence versus productive evidence

Abstract:

Of three types of evidence available to evolution theoristscomparative, continuity, and computationalthe first is largely productive rather than predictive. Although comparison between extant species or languages is possible and can be suggestive of evolutionary processes, leading to theory development, comparison with extinct species and languages seems necessary for validation. Continuity and computational evidence provide the best opportunities for supporting predictions.