The Evolution of the Theory of Evolution

By means of persistent curiosity of how life diversified into such a vast array of forms, Darwin in 1859 established his theory of evolution. He was able to provide an understanding of how species change over time through the suggested laws: law of variation, law of inheritance, law of selection, and principles of natural selection. These scientific laws were used to predict the results of certain initial conditions on planet earth and his theory was used to supply a logical explanation to why things happen as they do. But due to his lack of scientific knowledge about DNA and genetics, Darwin's laws were based on observations only. The theory provided a basic structure for scientists to work around and when discoveries were made, Darwin's establishments were integrated within the new biological findings. Therefore the theory of evolution has undergone evolution itself as a result of the progressive insightful discoveries scientists have established over the years.

In the early 20^th century, scientists became knowledgeable about the presence of heritable factors that contributed to evolution. This was coincidentally found during the nuclear age, where nuclear weapons and energy were being explored; scientists exposed bacteria, molds, flies, and other organisms to radiation and observed that genetic changes happen as a result of exposure to radiation. This led to the conclusion that chemicals can alter DNA structure; this was the basic introduction to variation and mutations. From such discoveries, it was assumed that random errors, resulted from accidents and damages, play a huge role in variation and the consequent diversity of life. However this was found to be incorrect when more advanced findings were included through molecular and cellular biology. From Rosalind Franklin's x-ray diffraction, the structure of DNA was discovered and from there, advanced technology allowed biologists to acquire knowledge and obtain information about genes, chromosomes, symbiosis, and more. In addition the sequencing of the human genome took place. Therefore an integral model of evolution was formed, and from comprehending such knowledge, the occurrence of evolution is debatable, as it is not accepted by everyone.