Charles Darwin's development of the theory of the evolution of species had a profound impact upon science and society in the 19th century. It influenced thinking in such diverse fields as the medical, biological and physical sciences, society, and even religion. This essay will explore these effects, arguing that Darwinism represented a new scientific and ideological paradigm that transformed the ways in which men looked at their world and themselves.
Peter J. Bowler, in his analysis of this issue, made the statement that when "the Origin of the Species was published on November 24, 1859, the 1,250 copies of the first edition were snapped up by bookseller son the first day. There was some support from scientists, but much of the initial response was negative."[i] The theory of evolution and its adjunct, the survival of the fittest, was key to Darwin's argument regarding the ways in which all life forms developed and were modified or adapted over time. [ii] Bowler says that those who favored Darwin's views "came from less privileged social backgrounds and were anxious to replace the old hierarchy with a new order favoring the middle classes."[iii] Nevertheless, over time as noted by Bowler, scientists and physicians began to recognize that aspects of the theory could be demonstrated empirically; further, while Darwinisn experienced a decline in the later 19th and early 20th century, the reality of the new paradigm was inescapable: it forever changed society, said Bowler, and this may have been the greatest contribution of all. [iv]
Frederick Gregory notes that what was truly "new" about Darwin's theory was its lack of emphasis on the necessity of a "divine designer."[v] Such a concept was radical at the time, particularly in light of the largely Christian theological orientation of much of Darwin's audience, including scientists and physicians. Gregory suggests that for Darwin, natural selection and survival of the fit...