Question

Lamarck’s Theory of Evolution is also called as
A. Theory of Special Creation
B. Inheritance of Acquired Characters
C. Survival of the Fittest
D. Theory of Origin of Life

Answer 1

Lamarckism is the theory of evolution which is based on the principle of physical changes in organisms during their lifetime. It signifies the greater development of an organ or a part being increased through continuous uses which is seen that these traits are transmitted to the offspring.

Complete answer:
1. In theological doctrine, this Theory of Special Creation is stated. It narrates that the whole universe and all living organisms originated in their present forms according to an unconditional divine decree. But this theory has nowhere related with Lamarck’s Theory of Evolution.
2. ‘Survival of the Fittest’ is a popular term which Charles Darwin coined in his theory of evolution. This tries to explain the ways of natural selection. In this option too, it is not related with Lamarck’s theory of evolution. Although, it talks about evolution in aspect of the analyses of natural selection, but did not show the ways of evolution in animal and plant lives in the modes of adaptation.
3. In the theory of origin of Life, there are many theories. Mainly they try to find out the primitive organ or organisms from which the plant and animal kingdoms are born and then flourished. It might be a cycle of organisms which can be classified into various species, but it does not chalk out the route to find out the effects of evolution from the primitive time till today.
4. In this regard, we can discuss the point of acquired characteristics which has developed in the course of the life of an individual, mainly as a direct response to some external change in the environment or through the use or disuse of a part. The inheritance of such a characteristic means its reappearance in one or more individuals in the next or in succeeding generations. This is called Inheritance of Acquired Characters. So, we can say that Lamarck’s theory of evolution is also called ‘Inheritance of Acquired Characters’. Because, upon this aspect, the entire theory of evolution as proposed by Lamarck is based

Hence the correct answer is option ‘D’.

Note: The theory of evolution as proposed by Lamarck explains how the necks of giraffe are grown so long while the theory summarizes the fact that the ancestors of modern giraffe did not have their long necks. Which is why, those were the acquired characteristics of their ancestors. In the inheritance, that quality is transferred to modern giraffes along with this special characteristic.