Darwinism

American  

[dahr-wuh-niz-uhm] / ˈdɑr wəˌnɪz əm /

noun

1. the Darwinian theory that species originate by descent, with variation, from parent forms, through the natural selection of those individuals best adapted for the reproductive success of their kind.

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Darwinism British  

/ ˈdɑːwɪˌnɪzəm /

noun

1. the theory of the origin of animal and plant species by evolution through a process of natural selection Compare Lamarckism See also Neo-Darwinism

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Darwinism Scientific  

/ där′wĭ-nĭz′əm /

1. A theory of biological evolution developed by Charles Darwin and others, stating that all species of organisms arise and develop through the natural selection of small, inherited variations that increase the individual's ability to compete, survive, and reproduce. Darwin's ideas have been refined and modified by subsequent researchers, but his theories still form the foundation of the scientific understanding of the evolution of life. Darwinism is often contrasted with another theory of biological evolution called Lamarckism, based on the now-discredited ideas of Jean-Baptiste Lamarck.

2. See Note at evolution

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Other Word Forms

• Darwinist noun
• Darwinistic adjective
• Darwinite noun
• anti-Darwinism noun
• anti-Darwinist noun
• pro-Darwinism noun

Etymology

Origin of Darwinism

First recorded in 1855–60; Darwin + -ism

Example Sentences

“This will prove Darwinism,” Mr. Ruiz said he had told his constituent, “because those with common sense who use their intelligence will survive.”

From New York Times

They are, in effect, creating a constituency for social Darwinism.

From Washington Post

Social Darwinism is the heart of fascism as well as the heart of capitalism.

From Salon

This will presumably require that such competing theories as the story given in Genesis and Aristotle's theory of spontaneous generation be taught along with Darwinism.

From Scientific American

In a new report, McKinsey refers to the situation as “wholesale Darwinism.”

From New York Times