Critical to the theory of evolution,Darwin needed to include an idea that was not generally accepted by scientists or society at that time.That idea was
A) that catastrophism occurred at a uniform rate.
B) that the inheritance of acquired characteristics was true.
C) that the Earth must be very old.
D) that uniformitarianism was false.
E) that diversity of life was constant through time.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At the time of Darwin, it was generally believed that the Earth was only a few thousand years old, based on the interpretation of biblical accounts. However, Darwin's theory of evolution required an ancient Earth for the slow accumulation of gradual changes over time. Therefore, including the idea that the Earth was very old was critical to Darwin's theory of evolution.

Critical to the Theory of Evolution,Darwin Needed to Include an Idea