Evolution as an Algorithm

In his book, Darwin's Dangerous Idea, Daniel Dennett outlines the idea that evolution is an algorithm, similar to a computer program. That is, it is a sequence of steps (reproduction with variation then selection) that reliably produces a particular result (evolution). He shows that algorithms are independent of the substrate they run in. For example, some computer programs use the evolution algorithm for design work.
If one can show that the description of the evolution algorithm is correct and if one can show that biological systems do exhibit reproduction with variation, and that selection operates, surely one should then expect evolution to occur. If these requirements are satisfied, is that sufficient for confidence in the ToE?

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Don

Woodsey, welcome to EvC. That sounds like a good book, although I have not read it. Edited by AdminPhat, : No reason given.

Thread copied to the Evolution as an Algorithm thread in the Is It Science? forum, this copy of the thread has been closed.