Orthogenesis meaning

Orthogenesis is the theory that evolution is driven by an unstoppable force guiding organisms towards a predetermined goal.


Orthogenesis definitions

Word backwards sisenegohtro
Part of speech The word "orthogenesis" is a noun.
Syllabic division or-tho-gen-e-sis
Plural The plural form of the word orthogenesis is orthogeneses.
Total letters 12
Vogais (3) o,e,i
Consonants (6) r,t,h,g,n,s

Orthogenesis is a theory in evolutionary biology that suggests a directional trend in the evolution of organisms, leading to a predetermined endpoint. This idea proposes that evolution is driven by internal mechanisms rather than external factors like natural selection. Orthogenesis implies that there is a built-in mechanism guiding the development of species along a specific pathway.

Origins of Orthogenesis

The concept of orthogenesis was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when scientists sought to explain patterns of evolution beyond natural selection. Some proponents believed in a mysterious force that shaped the course of evolution, while others suggested internal factors within organisms were responsible for this directional trend.

Mechanisms of Orthogenesis

Proponents of orthogenesis proposed various mechanisms to explain how this directional evolution occurs. Some suggested genetic determinism, while others focused on the concept of internal factors driving the inherent development of species. The idea of orthogenesis fell out of favor as the theory of natural selection, proposed by Charles Darwin, gained widespread acceptance in the scientific community.

Controversy Surrounding Orthogenesis

Orthogenesis has been a topic of debate among evolutionary biologists and paleontologists. While some researchers argue that there is evidence of a directional trend in evolution, others maintain that natural selection is the primary driver of evolutionary change. The lack of empirical evidence supporting orthogenesis has led many scientists to dismiss the theory as outdated and lacking in scientific rigor.

Overall, orthogenesis remains a controversial and debated topic in the field of evolutionary biology. While the concept may have influenced scientific thought in the past, modern evolutionary theory tends to emphasize the role of natural selection in driving the diversity and adaptation of species.


Orthogenesis Examples

  1. The theory of orthogenesis suggests that evolution progresses in a predetermined direction.
  2. Some scientists believe that orthogenesis influenced the development of certain species.
  3. Orthogenesis proposes that there is an inherent drive towards complexity in evolution.
  4. Critics of orthogenesis argue that evolution is not driven by predetermined paths.
  5. Orthogenesis was once a popular idea in the early 20th century among biologists.
  6. The concept of orthogenesis has fallen out of favor in modern evolutionary biology.
  7. Some researchers still study the phenomenon of orthogenesis in certain organisms.
  8. Orthogenesis is sometimes used to explain certain patterns in the fossil record.
  9. The debate over orthogenesis continues among scientists who study evolutionary processes.
  10. Orthogenesis remains a controversial topic in the field of evolutionary biology.


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  • Updated 16/04/2024 - 23:00:06