Darwin Vocabulary Flashcards
science
the assumption that the universe is orderly and can be expected to specific and discoverable laws
microevolution
small changes within the species of a gene pool
macroevolution
the origin, over time, of fundamentally new organisms from prior life forms
teleology
the study of design and purpose in nature. Life, in general, seems to operate like the most complex of machines
DNA
the storehouse containing all genetic information necessary for life.
spontaneous generation
the belief that non-life gave rise to living organisms.
2nd Law of Thermodynamics
Scientific theory that states that the total energy in the cosmos remains constant, yet the amount of available energy to do useful work is always decreasing.
theistic evolution
the proposition that God is in charge of the biological process called evolution. God diets and guides the unfolding of life forms over millions of years.
natural selection
A term developed by Darwin describing the recurring struggle for existence among each species. The change profitable variance of one, will give it a better chance for survival.
survival of the fittest
a phrase coined by Herbert Spencer to better articulate the meaning of “natural selection.”
On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection
Book published by Charles Darwin in 1859, documenting his evolution theories.
Voyage os the Beagle
Book published by Charles Darwin in 1839 containing his diary and the diary of Captain Fitzroy
