The concept of evolution was first presented by which of the following scientists?

Correct answer: A. Lamarck

  • A. Lamarck
  • B. Aristotle
  • C. Wallace
  • D. Darwin

Explanation

Jean Baptiste Lamarck was one of the first scientists to propose a coherent theory of evolution, known as Lamarckism, which posited that traits acquired during an organism's lifetime could be passed on to its offspring. This was a foundational concept that preceded the more widely accepted theories of Darwin and Wallace. Aristotle, on the other hand, did not formulate a theory of evolution, focusing instead on classification. Wallace and Darwin both contributed significant theories to the field, but their ideas came after Lamarck's initial proposal.

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About Evolution

Evolution describes heritable change in populations over generations through variation, natural selection and adaptation. Lamarckism explains inheritance of acquired characteristics, while Darwinism explains selection of favourable inherited variations; these historical explanations must not be confused with the modern genetic account of evolutionary change.

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