Who proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection
Answer Details
The theory of evolution by natural selection was proposed by Charles Darwin, an English naturalist, in his book "On the Origin of Species" published in 1859. Darwin's theory suggests that all species of organisms have descended over time from common ancestors through a process he called natural selection.
In simple terms, Darwin's theory states that within a population, there is variation in traits that can be inherited. Some of these traits may give individuals an advantage in surviving and reproducing in their environment, while others may not. Individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass those traits on to their offspring, while individuals with less advantageous traits are less likely to survive and reproduce. Over time, this process can lead to the evolution of new species as those with advantageous traits become more prevalent in the population.
While other scientists, including Lamarck and Aristotle, had proposed ideas about how species could change over time, Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection provided a comprehensive explanation supported by extensive evidence from his travels and observations of various species.