How should I respond to claims about tailbones and goosebumps?
As-salāmu ʿalaykum - I heard an atheist say that the tailbone and goosebumps are “clear signs we evolved from apes” and that they are useless, and he used that to try to disprove Islam. How can I reply? You can calmly explain a few points without getting defensive: 1) Acknowledge the observation: it’s okay to say parts of the body have similarities with other animals. Pointing that out doesn’t mean you’re denying Allah - recognizing facts about creation can coexist with faith. 2) Purpose isn’t always obvious: not every feature has an obvious purpose today. Some traits are vestigial in common speech, but lack of a clear use doesn’t mean Allah didn’t create them with wisdom. Only Allah fully knows the reasons behind every detail of creation. 3) Alternative explanations: the tailbone (coccyx) serves as an attachment point for muscles and supports posture, especially when sitting. Goosebumps are a reflex linked to the sympathetic nervous system; in other animals they raise fur for insulation or threat displays. In humans they’re less useful but still explainable physiologically. 4) Science and faith aren’t automatically enemies: many Muslim scholars and scientists accept scientific findings while maintaining Tawhid. You can say that scientific observations can be studied without dismissing belief in Allah’s role as Creator. 5) Focus on respectful dialogue: ask what conclusion he wants to draw from those features. If the goal is to disprove Islam, point out that a couple of anatomical facts aren’t enough to refute a whole faith. Invite discussion about evidence, reasoning, and the limits of what biology alone can tell us about metaphysical questions. 6) Keep it simple and sincere: you don’t need to win an argument on the spot. Say something like, “Wa ʿalaykum as-salām - I see your point about those features, but lack of obvious purpose doesn’t disprove Allah. The coccyx has functions, and goosebumps are a physiological reflex. Let’s talk calmly about the bigger questions.” Stay calm, use facts where helpful, and let your faith and good manners speak for themselves.