"Has it ever been used to characterize evolution by anyone except creationists? "

No, it is a direct quote ABOUT a quote at Creation.com... referring to a book from 1930. It is used by creationists to sort of defend the idea that evolution is not even really possible. It is also demonstrably false, as some organisms DO actually gain/add characteristics which aid in survival. Look up the marine iguanas of Galapagos.

Pete, you really must give proper attribution to quotes.