NEO DARWINISM Meaning and
Definition
-
Neo-Darwinism refers to a modernized version of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, incorporating subsequent scientific advancements and expanding upon his original ideas. It is a synthesis of Darwinian natural selection and Mendelian inheritance, which combines the principles of genetics with the mechanism of survival of the fittest.
In neo-Darwinism, evolution is believed to occur through the accumulation of small, beneficial genetic variations over time. These variations arise through genetic mutations, which are alterations in the DNA sequence. These mutations can be passed down from parent to offspring, allowing certain traits to become more prevalent in a population over successive generations.
The central tenet of neo-Darwinism is the concept of natural selection, which posits that individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, ensuring the transmission of these traits to subsequent generations. Over time, populations may evolve as certain variations become more common or even fixed in the gene pool.
Neo-Darwinism also recognizes the role of genetic drift, which refers to random changes in gene frequencies due to chance events. Additionally, it incorporates sexual selection, a non-random process that occurs when individuals with certain attractive traits are favored as mates, giving them a reproductive advantage.
This modern understanding of evolution, encapsulated by neo-Darwinism, has helped refine the theory of natural selection by incorporating genetics and providing a more comprehensive explanation for the mechanisms driving evolutionary change.
Common Misspellings for NEO DARWINISM
Etymology of NEO DARWINISM
The word "neo-Darwinism" combines two elements: "neo" and "Darwinism".
The term "neo" comes from the Greek word "neos", meaning "new" or "revived". It is often used as a prefix in English to indicate something that is a new or modified version of an older idea or theory.
"Darwinism" refers to the theory of evolution proposed by Charles Darwin in the mid-19th century. Darwinism is based on the concept of natural selection, which suggests that species evolve over time through a process of adaptation to their environment.
Therefore, "neo-Darwinism" emerged as a revival or modernized version of Darwin's theory of evolution, emphasizing the integration of genetic inheritance and mutation into the process of natural selection.
