Scientists that Influenced Darwin’s Thinking

Learning Objectives State how Hutton and Lyell described geological change Describe how Lamark thought species evolved Describe Malthus’ theory of population growth

An Ancient, Changing Earth Two scientists who helped Darwin recognize how old the Earth is... James Hutton Charles Lyell

James Hutton Geological forces like rain, wind, heat and cold temperatures, have shaped the Earth

James Hutton Layers of rock form very slowly and rocks are moved up by forces beneath the Earth’s surface.

James Hutton Estimated the Earth to be millions of years old.

Charles Lyell Geological processes occurring now have shaped the Earth’s geological features over long periods of time.

Jean Baptiste Lamarck By selective use or disuse of organs, organisms acquired or lost certain traits during their lifetime.

Jean Baptiste Lamarck Selective use or disuse of an organ led to a change in that organ, that was then passed on to offspring.

Thomas Malthus If the human population continued to grow unchecked, eventually there would be insufficient food and living space for everyone.

What factors determine which organisms survive and reproduce and which do not?

YouTube Lamark’s Theory of Evolution

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Thomas Malthus Maple trees can produce thousands of seeds. Darwin wondered why the continents are not covered with maple trees?