Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
Charles DarwinRead
The fact of evolution is the backbone of biology, and biology is thus in the peculiar position of being a science founded on an improved theory, is it then a science or faith?
Interpretation
What this quote means
Darwin reflects on the nature of biology and the theory of evolution, questioning whether it is purely scientific or has elements of faith.
In this quote, Charles Darwin contemplates the status of biology as a science deeply rooted in the theory of evolution. He highlights the interesting paradox that while evolution is a well-supported scientific theory, it also requires a degree of belief in its principles, which prompts a debate about the epistemological foundations of biological science.
Themes
EvolutionBiologyScienceFaithTheory
In practice
Example use cases
In a lecture on the importance of science in understanding our origins, this quote can illustrate the debate surrounding evolutionary theory.
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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