Development of Evolutionary Theory

Week Two   Lesson 2: “Development of Evolutionary Theory.”  Evolutionary theory provides a foundation for the study of physical anthropology. In this lesson, experts guide us through the development of Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. It also brings to life some of the main contributors to evolutionary theory. The theory of evolution by natural selection is illustrated using examples from the Galápagos Islands, monarch butterflies, peppered moths, and a special segment on the Channel Islands fox.

While responding to the dvd lesson, you may refer to the chapter as necessary.  See attached ppt for this chapter.  However, make sure to focus your post on the video lesson content. Quote or make explicit references to what the big name commentators say in the lesson.

Please address both of the topics that now follow. [See the "Rubric" for grading listed in the course syllabus.]

a. Review the key historical events surrounding the development of what we now call science. Who were some of the main players and why?

b. Explain how Darwin’s observations in the Galapagos Islands contributed to his theory of evolution by natural selection. How have some of his observations been applied regarding the foxes found on the Channel Islands? Remember, the dvd lesson is the main focus here and you must refer to the speakers in your post.