Evolutionary Views of Jean-Baptiste Lamarck

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Who was Jean-Baptiste Lamarck?

A French naturalist known for his theory of evolution before Darwin.

What is Lamarck's theory of inheritance called?

Inheritance of Acquired Characteristics.

What does inheritance of acquired characteristics mean?

It suggests that traits developed during an organism's life can be passed to offspring.

Lamarck is known for his work on which group of animals?

Invertebrates, particularly mollusks.

What was a key example Lamarck used to explain his theory?

The elongation of a giraffe’s neck for reaching high leaves.

How did Lamarck think organisms change over time?

He believed they adapt to their environment by developing new features.

What year did Lamarck publish his major evolutionary work?

1809.

Lamarck was the first to use which term related to biology?

Biology.

What is a common misconception about Lamarck's theory?

That acquired traits can directly change DNA, which is not possible.

Why were Lamarck’s ideas initially controversial?

They challenged the belief that species were unchangeable and created as is.

Which scientist's ideas eventually surpassed Lamarck's theory?

Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection.

What did Lamarck believe about organisms' needs?

He thought organisms change due to their needs and effort to adapt.

How is Lamarck's theory viewed today?

His ideas are largely considered incorrect but were important for evolutionary thought.

What impact did Lamarck's work have on the scientific community?

It stimulated discussion and further study on evolution and adaptation.

Which concept did Lamarck introduce that is similar to use and disuse?

The idea that use strengthens and enlarges organs, while disuse weakens them.