150 Years of the Theory of Evolution

25 Nov 2009

Today marks the 150th anniversary of the publication of Charles Darwin’s “On the Origin of Species”, one of the most influential scientific publications in modern time. Modified from its original form through advances in fields like chemistry, archaeology, biology and, particularly, genetics, the basic concept of blind selection through survival remains.

Though it is disputed in some parts of the world, the fact remains that our combined knowledge of life on Earth overwhelmingly supports the foundation of his thoughts; From fossils and genetic analysis to modern medical research and modifications of foods and animals through breeding and genetic engineering.

To celebrate this milestone in modern science, the National Science Foundation has released a special interactive report on the influence of Darwin. There’s the always educating Wikipedia entry on Evolution and PBS has an Evolution page too.