Question

Lamarck’s theory of evolution was published in the book _____________.

• A. On the origin of species
• B. Philosophie Zoologique
• C. Systema Naturae
• D. Philosophia Botanica

Answer 1

The correct option is B Philosophie Zoologique

Lamarck’s theory of evolution was published in Philosophie Zoologique in the year 1809. This theory is popularly known as “The theory of inheritance of acquired characters in organisms”. Lamarck in his theory stated that during the lifetime of an organism new characters develop or acquire due to internal vital force (an inner desire of certain organs to enlarge or form), the effect of environment, new needs (to suit the present environment), and use and disuse of organs. These acquired characters are inherited from one generation to another.

The theory of natural selection was explained by Darwin in his book, “On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection published in 1859. According to Darwin, in the struggle for existence, only those members who possess favourable variation will be selected by nature. The fit individuals selected will reproduce more and this is called natural selection.

Carl Linnaeus was a Swedish botanist and zoologist. In 1735, he wrote down his ideas of classification of plants and animals in Systema Naturae. In this book, he grouped together animals and plants with similar traits. Philosophia Botanica is another book by Linnaeus published in 1751. In this book, he discusses the binomial nomenclature of plants.