Define the term evolution. "Evolution cannot be equated with progress". Justify this statement

Explanation

Evolution is a gradual change in the characteristics of a population of animals or plants over successive generations. Evolution cannot be equated with progress. There is no real .progress. in the idea of evolution. Evolution is simply the generation of diversity and the shaping of the diversity by environmental selection. The only progressive trend in evolution seems to be that more and more complex body designs have emerged over time. However again, it is not as if the older designs are inefficient! One of the simplest life forms, bacteria inhabits the most inhospitable habitats like hot springs, deep-sea thermal vents and the ice in Antarctica.