We've all seen the commercials. A line of figures walking from left to right, first a shambling ape on all fours; the second, semi-erect with a vague glimmer of intelligence, and perhaps holding a hand-axe; further along, a tall, proud man, carrying a spear and wearing furs; and finally, a user of the latest car or washing machine. The caption will speak of advancement and progression, something like 'Evolution — the Next Step'.

These advertisements reflect the popular view of evolution as a progressive force that drives an inexorable improvement. But in reality, evolution is based largely on natural selection, a handy term for the interaction between the environment, mutation and superabundance. Natural selection has neither memory nor foresight; it works only in the here and now. It is not a force, an entity separate from the materials on which it acts. Still less can it be personified.

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