Charles Darwin

Charles Darwin

Introduction

Charles Darwin is the most prominent theorist of 19th century whose work on evolution received a widespread attention from researchers of his era and even modern time. Darwin presented his research work in his book - Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection - in 1859, which is generally assumed Darwin's reason of popularity (Browne, 1996). No doubt, Darwin's work is of great influence to biological science and many other fields. It is also interesting to know that Darwin initially believed in the design of living things and sought after explanations in laws of nature rather than miracles. In addition, he also saw “adaptation of species” as evidence of design. However, later he considered natural selection to produce the process of adaptation and removed the need for design. However, his research work has also received great criticism and caused Darwin to respond by publishing revised edition of his earlier work and evidence-based monographs (Hull, 1983).

Discussion

Darwin was born in England on February 12, 1809, which was the era of conservative political as well as social system in Europe. It is important to know that his grandfather, Erasmus Darwin, was also a physician with a significant knowledge in botany as well as deep interest in poetry (Browne, 1996). There is no doubt about the fact that his grandfather's influence regarding nature, plants and animal can be seen in Darwin's life as he proved to be a notable researcher in these areas. During his childhood, Darwin was interested in collecting shells of animals, eggs of birds and other minerals. In addition, he was also interested in gardening, which was itself a result of his father's skills and encouragement (Browne, 1996).

Darwin started his education in the city of Shrewsbury where he was born. He joined Edinburg University to pursue medical education but left the university after three years as Darwin was not interested in this area of studies (Browne, 1996). It is also interesting to know that he later joined Christ's College in Cambridge where he found a better platform to explore nature and perform scientific experiences. This college can be seen as a breakthrough for Darwin's scientific expedition. He started studying geology and his deep interest in nature motivated him to travel to South America (Browne, 1996). He went to Beagle and stayed there for five years where he explored various sides of nature and collected geological and biological evidences, which later help him to develop his theory of natural selection.

Darwin's work not only influenced natural sciences but a significant impact of his work can be seen on other areas including art, literature and philosophy (Tooke, 2001). In fact, Darwin spent years before finding the trigger, and currently, the intellectual work, combined with spiritual inspiration, will work in time and bring forth a new theory. Darwin used natural selection, because the concept was productive while bypassing a lack of knowledge in biology. Currently, genetics and molecular biology have provided tons of data, including the alternative of supplying Kimura, but in terms ...