The Origin of Species, Volume 11First published in 1859, this landmark book on evolutionary biology was not the first to deal with the subject, but it went on to become a sensation—and a controversial one for many religious people who could not reconcile Darwin’s science with their faith. Darwin worked on the book for over 20 years before its publication. The radical crux of his scientific theory was the idea of natural selection, which meant that chance, not a divine Creator, played a great role in humanity's advancement and that individuals who weren't physically able to adapt with the greater populace died off. |
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adapted admit affinities allied species America ancient appear Asa Gray beak become bees believe belonging birds breeds cause cells characters climate closely allied colour common continent crossed crustaceans degree developed difficulty distinct species domestic doubt effects eggs embryo existing extinct extremely facts favourable fertilised fertility flowers formation forms fossil Fritz Müller genera genus geological geological period Glacial period gradations greater number groups of species habits Hence hybrids important increase individuals inhabitants inherited insects instance instincts intercrossing intermediate lamellæ larvæ less living male mammals manner Marsupials migration modified descendants natural selection naturalists nearly nest occasionally offspring organisation organs parent peculiar perfect pigeons pistil pollen present principle probably produced progenitor quadrupeds ranked reciprocal crosses remarked resemblance rudimentary seeds sexual selection slight South America stamens sterility structure struggle successive supposed theory tion variability variations varieties vary whilst whole wings young