theory of evolution
Species change explanation
The theory of evolution is the scientific explanation for how life on Earth has changed over time through natural selection and genetic variation.
First articulated comprehensively by Charles Darwin in 1859, it holds that species are not fixed but gradually transform across generations, with individuals better adapted to their environment more likely to survive and reproduce.
The theory unifies all of biology, explaining the diversity of life from a common ancestry.
The theory of evolution remains foundational to modern genetics and medicine.
- human originsStudy of mankind's emergence
- common ancestorOrigin point of descendants
- origin of speciesText establishing evolutionary theory
- fossil recordRemains documenting prehistoric life
- natural selectionDifferential reproductive success
Charles Darwin · adaptation · survival of the fittest · survival instinct · speciation · genetic mutation · biogeography · Gregor Mendel · Thomas Malthus · coevolution · molecular biology · comparative anatomy · embryology · Galapagos · radiometric dating · gene flow · missing links · sexual selection
theory of evolutioncreationism
Divine origin doctrine
creation science · intelligent design · divine creation · special creation · creation myth
theory of evolutiondogma
Unchallengeable official beliefs
pseudoscience · religious doctrine · revelation · superstition · blind faith
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