The Origin of Species · Chapter
On Extinction explained
Darwin argues that extinction is intimately connected with the production of new forms through natural selection.
What happens
Darwin argues that extinction is intimately connected with the production of new forms through natural selection. He rejects catastrophic explanations, emphasizing gradual disappearance, and illustrates how rarity precedes extinction, using examples like the fossil horse and mastodon. He stresses that unseen hostile agencies, competition, and the advantage of improved varieties drive the extinction of less-favored forms.
Themes in this chapter
Extinction and the Succession of Forms
Central theme: extinction is a gradual process tied to the production of new, improved forms via natural selection.
Natural Selection and the Struggle for Existence
Extinction results from competition and the advantage of new varieties; the 'battle of life' determines which forms survive.
Adaptation and the Utilitarian Doctrine
Survival depends on advantageous adaptations; mere size or strength does not guarantee victory.
Characters to notice
- Charles Darwin
Author and narrator; reflects on his own astonishment at extinction and his findings in La Plata.
- Professor Owen
Identified the fossil horse tooth as belonging to an extinct species; noted that large size can lead to quicker extermination.
- Dr. Falconer
Believed insects chiefly check the increase of elephants in India.
- Sir R. Murchison
Mentioned as a geologist whose general views would lead to catastrophic conclusions, though such views are now given up.
- M. Barrande
Listed among geologists who previously held catastrophic views.
Key passages
“On the theory of natural selection, the extinction of old forms and the production of new and improved forms are intimately connected together.”
According to natural selection, the disappearance of older species and the emergence of newer, better-adapted ones are closely linked.
Darwin establishes the core link between extinction and evolution.
“We need not marvel at extinction; if we must marvel, let it be at our presumption in imagining for a moment that we understand the many complex contingencies on which the existence of each species depends.”
Extinction should not surprise us; what is truly astonishing is our arrogance in thinking we comprehend the intricate factors that sustain each species.
Darwin humbly acknowledges the limits of human understanding regarding extinction.
“The theory of natural selection is grounded on the belief that each new variety and ultimately each new species, is produced and maintained by having some advantage over those with which it comes into competition; and the consequent extinction of less-favoured forms almost inevitably follows.”
Natural selection rests on the idea that every new variety or species arises and persists because it has an edge over its competitors, leading almost inevitably to the extinction of less advantaged forms.
Darwin summarizes the mechanism linking advantage, competition, and extinction.