The Effect of External Influences upon Development (eBook)

August Weismann (Autor)

eBook Download: EPUB

2022
47 Seiten
DigiCat (Verlag)
859-654716741-9 (EAN)

Infos

August Weismann's 'The Effect of External Influences upon Development' is a groundbreaking work in the field of evolutionary biology. In this meticulously researched book, Weismann explores the impact of external factors such as the environment, diet, and social interactions on the development of organisms. Drawing on empirical evidence and his own experiments, Weismann argues that heredity plays a crucial role in shaping an organism's traits, but external influences can also have a significant effect. His clear and concise writing style makes this scholarly work accessible to both experts and lay readers. Weismann's emphasis on the interplay between nature and nurture adds a new dimension to the study of evolution. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of genetic inheritance and environmental influences on development.

Autor

August Weismann (1834–1914) was a German biologist renowned for his significant contributions to the field of evolutionary biology and embryology. Born on January 17 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, Weismann embarked on a journey in science that led him to challenge preconceived notions about inheritance and development. He is most notably attributed with formulating the 'germ plasm' theory of heredity, which starkly contrasted the then-popular Lamarckian view of the inheritance of acquired characteristics. This theory posited that the hereditary information is carried only in the germ cells, and somatic cells do not pass on traits to subsequent generations, an idea that laid foundational groundwork for modern genetics. Weismann's extensive research is encapsulated in his influential work, 'The Effect of External Influences upon Development' (1894), wherein he argued against the hypothesis that environmental changes during an individual's lifetime could directly affect the genetic material. His scientific endeavors and rigorous approach greatly impacted the understanding of natural selection and heredity, carving a pivotal role for Weismann within the scientific community. His literary style is characterized by meticulous detail and clarity of thought, making his complex theories accessible to a broad audience of contemporaries and future scholars. Weismann's legacy persists through his contributions which continue to inspire and inform biological research and evolutionary thought.

Produkt-Details

• Erscheint lt. Verlag: 10.8.2022
• Verlagsort: Prague
• Sprache: englisch
• Themenwelt: Literatur
• Themenwelt: Naturwissenschaften ► Biologie
• Schlagworte: 1890s works • 19th century science influence fiction • August Weismann author • biological determinism in classics • classical scientific fiction • Course of development • developmental biology in literature • Developmental influences • evolutionary biology • evolutionary theory fiction • genetic inheritance literature • heredity and adaptation themes • Impact of external factors • Inherent forces • Internal vs External forces • Lectures • Life conditions impact • Life outcomes • Nägeli's theory • natural selection narratives • nature versus nurture debate books • Organic world evolution • Romanes lectures • speeches