Explain why scientists initially disagreed with Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection when it was first published.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Model answer (4 marks)
Scientists disagreed with Darwin because, at the time, there was no understanding of how traits were inherited, so the mechanism of natural selection was unclear.
They also pointed out that the fossil record was incomplete and did not yet show the gradual changes Darwin proposed.
Moreover, the idea that species could arise by natural processes conflicted with prevailing religious beliefs that God created each species.
Finally, many scientists viewed Darwin’s theory as a radical departure from accepted ideas and were reluctant to accept it without further evidence.
They also pointed out that the fossil record was incomplete and did not yet show the gradual changes Darwin proposed.
Moreover, the idea that species could arise by natural processes conflicted with prevailing religious beliefs that God created each species.
Finally, many scientists viewed Darwin’s theory as a radical departure from accepted ideas and were reluctant to accept it without further evidence.
Examiner tips
- Use the four points in the order given; each point should be a short sentence. Include the word "inheritance" to show knowledge of genetics. Mention the fossil record and religious conflict explicitly. Show that the theory was new and unproven.
Common mistakes
- Confusing natural selection with mutation or evolution in general. Forgetting to mention the lack of genetic knowledge. Using vague phrases like "scientists were skeptical" without specifying why.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- There was no knowledge of genetics / inheritance at the time, so Darwin could not explain how advantageous traits were passed on to offspring
- There was insufficient fossil evidence at the time to support the theory
- The theory challenged religious views / conflicted with the idea that God created all species
- The theory was a radical / new idea and many scientists were reluctant to accept it without further evidence
Key terms in this question
natural selection · evolution · Charles Darwin
Related
- Revision notes: The development of understanding of genetics and evolution →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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