Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
Charles DarwinRead
Consequently, if my theory be true, it is indisputable that before the lowest Silurian stratum was deposited, long periods elapsed, as long as, or probably far longer than, the whole interval from the Silurian age to the present day; and that during these vast, yet quite unknown, periods of time, the world swarmed with living creatures. To the question why we do not find records of these vast primordial periods, I can give no satisfactory answer.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Darwin reflects on the immense spans of time before known geological periods, suggesting a rich history of life that remains undocumented.
In this quote, Charles Darwin discusses the geological timeline and implies that before the known Silurian stratum, there were extensive periods filled with life that we have no record of. He acknowledges the mysteries of Earth's history and suggests that while much is unknown, it is likely that the planet was abundant with various forms of life during these enigmatic epochs, challenging our understanding of evolutionary history.
Themes
EvolutionGeologyTimeLifeMystery
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture on evolutionary biology, I might quote Darwin to illustrate the concept of deep time.
More from Charles Darwin
All quotes →The highest possible stage in moral culture is when we recognize that we ought to control our thoughts.
Charles DarwinRead
I am quite conscious that my speculations run beyond the bounds of true science....It is a mere rag of an hypothesis with as many flaw[s] & holes as sound parts.
Charles DarwinRead
We cannot fathom the marvelous complexity of an organic being; but on the hypothesis here advanced this complexity is much increased. Each living creature must be looked at as a microcosm--a little universe, formed of a host of self-propagating organisms, inconceivably minute and as numerous as the stars in heaven.
Charles DarwinRead
I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by the term of Natural Selection.
Charles DarwinRead
we are always slow in admitting any great change of which we do not see the intermediate steps
Charles DarwinRead
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