theory of evolution and change
2007-02-11 03:27:50 · 6 answers · asked by Kelli S 1 in Social Science ➔ Anthropology
His theory is not based on "survival of the fittest" it is based on natural selection. Those who use the phrase "survival of the fittest" do not actually understand evolution or natural selection. Besides, Darwin doesn't even use the phrase "survival of the fittest" in any of his works, the term came about during the Social Darwinism movement.
Evolution is based on three principles:
1.) variation
2.) selection
3.) heredity
The principle of variation is based on the fact that among individuals within a population, there is variation in morphology, physiology, and behavior. Next, the principle of selection is based on the fact that some individuals are more successful at surviving and reproducing than others of the same population in a given environment. So, individuals that are well suited to their environment will have higher survival and reproduction rates. Lastly, the principle of heredity (not fully established in Darwin's time as far as DNA) is based on the fact that alleles are passed on from parents to offspring and that the offspring resembles their parents more than other individuals (unrelated).
This is a very simplified version so, if you want more detail and or suggested textbooks I would be happy to help.
2007-02-11 05:42:03 · answer #1 · answered by chris j 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Darwin's main theory was that of evolution and species survival. In fact, they were more than just theories- they represented the birth of a new chain of thought and thus the birth of "social-darwinism", a movement now extensively studied in human sciences.
His belief that only the strong succeed (survival of the fittest) is a founding argument in biological theories of socialization. His book- "The origins of Species" offers some fascinating insights into early man's development and if you wish to learn more about his greatest works i would recommend reading this, along with "The Descent of Man". Also- Freud's "Civilization and it's discontents" is a good book on social evolutionary theory.
He is known for many more theories, but as a psychologist i would say the survival theory was his greatest attribution to science
2007-02-11 04:46:07 · answer #2 · answered by bales 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Chris J did a good job on the theory of evolution by natural selection, but failed to mention sexual selection, the other great part of Darwin's theories." Frequency of traits can increase or decrease, depending on the attractiveness or fertility of the bearer". Thus, Darwin proposed male competition for mates and the ability of females to chose. Competition can be directly physical, or it can be displays, such as peacocks. Females are choosy, as they want the best for their progeny. Google " sexual selection " for more information.
2007-02-11 15:24:31 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Charles Darwin is best known for his research on the H.M.S. Beagle while down on the Galapagos Islands. He is known best for his SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST theory. He had an abundance of theories that ranged from emotional expression in animals and humans to sexual expression and survival. He authored four notable works, The Voyage of the Beagle, Origin of Species, The decent of man, and the Expression of the Emotions.
2007-02-11 04:24:37 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
Darwin has been explained quite well by the previous answerer's, except to say that most of his theories have been shown to be wrong. And he himself gives a criteria to which would have to held up or his theories would prove be false. Well the criteria has been met, but schools don't like to admit it. Starting with his tree of life.
2007-02-11 10:31:05 · answer #5 · answered by mark g 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
That his grandfather was an Ape.
2007-02-11 08:12:48 · answer #6 · answered by lorna233 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋