On the Origin of Species
First published 1859 · English · 393 pages
- Novels
- Science and nature
This is the book in which Darwin set out his theory that species are not fixed but change over many generations. He starts with familiar examples, such as pigeons and farm animals bred by people, to show how variation can be shaped by selection. He then argues that a similar process, which he calls natural selection, operates in the wild, because more young are born than can survive and the best suited tend to leave more offspring.
Darwin gathers evidence from geography, fossils, anatomy and the development of embryos, and he openly discusses the difficulties his theory faces. Written in clear, patient prose, it is one of the most influential scientific books ever published.
Quotes
Pigeons can be mated for life, and this is a great convenience to the fancier, for thus many races may be kept true, though mingled in the same aviary; and this circumstance must have largely favoured the improvement and formation of new breeds.
And thus, the forms of life throughout the universe become divided into groups subordinate to groups.
We will now discuss in a little more detail the struggle for existence.
I should premise that I use the term Struggle for Existence in a large and metaphorical sense, including dependence of one being on another, and including (which is more important) not only the life of the individual, but success in leaving progeny.