[Geology2] Darwin's gradual evolution not supported by geological history

Darwin's theory of gradual evolution not supported by geological
history, scientist concludes
PhysOrg.com [USA], November 9, 2010

Charles Darwin's theory of gradual evolution is not supported by
geological history, New York University Geologist Michael Rampino
concludes in an essay in the journal Historical Biology. In fact,
Rampino notes that a more accurate theory of gradual evolution, positing
that long periods of evolutionary stability are disrupted by
catastrophic mass extinctions of life, was put forth by Scottish
horticulturalist Patrick Matthew prior to Darwin's published work on the
topic.

"Matthew discovered and clearly stated the idea of natural selection,
applied it to the origin of species, and placed it in the context of a
geologic record marked by catastrophic mass extinctions followed by
relatively rapid adaptations," says Rampino, whose research on
catastrophic events includes studies on volcano eruptions and asteroid
impacts. "In light of the recent acceptance of the importance of
catastrophic mass extinctions in the history of life, it may be time to
reconsider the evolutionary views of Patrick Matthew as much more in
line with present ideas regarding biological evolution than the Darwin
view."

http://snipr.com/1fysiu
<http://www.physorg.com/news/2010-11-darwin-theory-gradual-evolution-geological.html>

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