Student Question
Are there any gaps in Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection/Evolution?
Quick answer:
Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection has notable gaps, such as the rapid diversification of flowers, which Darwin himself found puzzling due to its speed compared to natural selection. Additionally, recent discoveries in genetics, like shared DNA among Galapagos turtles, challenge the notion of unique species. Fields like geology, genetics, and paleoanthropology highlight these gaps, showing that new scientific discoveries can reveal limitations in Darwin's original ideas.
An article and news clip published by ABC News defines one very specific gap which exists in Charles Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection and Evolution. According to the article, Darwin himself questioned his theory based upon one thing: flowers. Given that it only took 45 million years for 400,000 different species of flowers to cover the earth. Given this "incredibly short period of time," flowers "seemed to mock natural selection."
An article from National Geographic states that George, the "last of his kind," was not exactly that. In fact, DNA which matches George (a Galapagos turtle) has been found in at least nine other turtles. Essentially, this proves that these turtles share some of their DNA and characteristics with the last of "their" kind, George.
Finally, an article in Smithsonian Magazine defines the greatest gaps in Darwin's theories. According to the article, "Three fields in particular—geology, genetics and paleoanthropology—illustrate both the gaps in Darwin's own knowledge and the power of his ideas." Therefore, as new scientific information is discovered, Darwin's theories can be found to have "gaps."
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
References