Darwin Flashcards
Describe Darwin's contributions to theories of evolution
1
Q
In what year did Darwin publish his first impactful work, and what was it called?
A
Theory of Natural Selection, 1859
2
Q
Explain the basic argument in Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection (6 points)
A
- In any population, there is variation
- Much of this variation is inherited
- Some characteristics are more adaptive than others in particular environments
- Individuals with adaptive characteristics are more likely to produce offspring than those who do not
- Adaptive variations will increasingly become more populous
- Environmental changes and geographical isolation promote diversion between species
3
Q
Why did Darwin believe that BOTH instinct and bodily behaviour were subject to natural selection?
A
Innate behaviours can be displayed by sterile animals, such as the female working ant
4
Q
What characteristic of humans did Darwin think was unique to the species?
A
Blushing, as it requires;
- self-consciousness
- awareness of one’s face
- awareness that another may observe onesself
