Need for Evidence

The article we were assigned to read this week once again represents the fascination with creatures like Big Foot. However, this article addresses Big Foot from a more scientific perspective, using Ecological Niche Modelling to predict the distribution of Big Foot. The range for research with ENMs has expanded greatly due to databases, internet access, etc. This leads into the greater possibility of error in this research, such as the error of trusting an article's accuracy like we discussed in class. The use of this somewhat questioned method on Big Foot can giver further reason to the constant doubting of its existence. This isn't to say that this method is entirely fictional and non scientific. Supposed sightings, auditory detections, and footprint measurements from the BRO have been used in the examination. One significant aspect used in the process was the detection of weaknesses held by Big Foots. The point is brought up that many environmental factors can affect their populations such as global warming. The idea that Big Foots still survive, but possibly not in great quantities brings me to think about Darwin's idea of the "survival of the fittest" and natural selection. Darwin proved that the more adapted an animal is to its environment the more likely it will survive. Therefore, Big Foots must be adapting to certain areas in order to survive. Based on the limited sightings, they obviously do not seem as adapted as us humans, however are managing to survive (supposedly). This brings me to believe that they have adapted to an environment which we have not adapted to yet. The article states that they are often found in the north and mountainous regions, which they will remain in as long as we stay out of there. The article correlates the distribution of Big Foot to be similar to that of Black Bears. This leaves me with a single question. Why is it so easy for us as people to believe the existence of species such as Black Bears which are not as readily visible, but it is very difficult to admit to the existence of Big Foot?