The discussion centers around E. Lester Smith's "Intelligence Came First" theory, which posits that intelligence precedes the development of biological functions, particularly in relation to the brain. Participants explore whether there have been rebuttals to Smith's conclusions, touching on themes of intelligent design and evolution.
There is no consensus among participants. Some support the notion that Smith's theory has been rebutted, while others express skepticism about intelligent design as a whole.
The discussion includes references to specific arguments and cases but does not resolve the validity of Smith's theory or the critiques of intelligent design.
Here is the premise: Throughout evolution function has proceded the organ through which it is to be exercised; the organ developed in response to a need. So why should the brain be any exception? In other words INTELLIGENCE CAME FIRST, quite able to function in its own realm. Working from such a premise it is no wonder that this daring group of scientists has opened up a Pandora's box of controversy. Are life, intelligence, and consciousness the primal realities? And is their expression in biological forms on Earth a secondary event? Is this scientific heresy? The authors suggest that it is somewhat ridiculous to maintain the position of a mechanistic, chance creation which insists that thought originates and depends upon the physical brain. This book has been written for both the scintist and the layman and includes some very real experimental situations. Suggest the authors: "Speaking of the brain ... no special 'box' equivalent to the computer's 'memory store' has been identified; nor is memory to be found in a particular cell, synapse, or chemical molecule." "Searching for memory traces is like looking for the difference between jazz and symphonic music by studying the humps on a phonograph record." "All experience is not stored in the brain."
--- from book's back cover