Darwin Day

Facts for Prelims

Darwin Day

News: February 12 is globally celebrated as Darwin Day to mark the birthday of naturalist Charles Darwin (12 February 1809 – 19 April 1882).

About:
•  Darwin Day is a celebration to commemorate the birthday of Charles Darwin on 12 February 1809. The day is used to highlight Darwins contributions to science and to promote science in general.
• The day is used to highlight Darwin’s contributions to science, particularly his theory of evolution.

Important theories:
• Theory of Evolution: Darwin proposed that all species of organisms arise and develop through the natural selection of small, inherited variations that increase the individuals ability to compete, survive, and reproduce.
• Natural Selection: Darwins concept of natural selection suggested that species evolve over time. The individuals with characteristics
most suited to the environment are more likely to survive and breed successfully. The characteristics that have enabled these individuals to survive are then passed on to the next generation.
• Common Descent: Darwins theory of common descent posits that all life evolved from a common ancestor. This theory is now a cornerstone of modern science.
• Sexual Selection: In his book The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex, Darwin proposed the theory of sexual selection, where certain traits evolve not for survival, but for mating success.