JOURNAL ARTICLE

Culture–gene co-evolution: Darwin's other theory comes into view.

  • Published In: Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2023, v. 139, n. 4. P. 563 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Corning, Peter A 3 of 3

Abstract

This article focuses on Charles Darwin's two distinct evolutionary theories, emphasizing his lesser-known Lamarckian-influenced view alongside natural selection. While the 20th-century modern synthesis (neo-Darwinism) prioritized gene-centered, random mutation-driven evolution, Darwin also recognized the role of purposeful behavior, social cooperation, and culture in shaping evolution, particularly human evolution as detailed in his 1874 work, *The Descent of Man*. Recent evidence supports the significance of gene–culture co-evolution and teleonomy (evolved purposiveness) in many species, challenging the exclusive dominance of the modern synthesis. The article highlights how behavior-driven evolutionary mechanisms, including cooperation and niche construction, have been increasingly acknowledged as major factors influencing biological complexity and evolutionary trajectories.

Additional Information

  • Source:Biological Journal of the Linnean Society. 2023/08, Vol. 139, Issue 4, p563
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:0024-4066
  • DOI:10.1093/biolinnean/blac048
  • Accession Number:169851153
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Biological Journal of the Linnean Society is the property of Oxford University Press / USA and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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