Evolutionary synthesis
- Pronunciation
- /ee-vuh-LOO-shuh-nair-ee SIN-thuh-sis/
- Category
- Theory
- Singular
- Evolutionary synthesis
- Plural
- Evolutionary syntheses
Definition
The unification of different biological disciplines, such as genetics, paleontology, systematics, and others into a coherent theory of evolution, integrating concepts like natural selection and genetic inheritance.
Etymology
Derived from 'evolution', from Latin 'evolutio' meaning 'an unrolling', and 'synthesis', from Greek 'synthesis' meaning 'a putting together'.
Example
The modern evolutionary synthesis combines Darwin's theory of natural selection with Mendelian genetics.
Synonyms
- Modern synthesis
- Synthetic theory of evolution
Related Terms
- Natural selection
- Genetic inheritance
- Population genetics
- Speciation
Usage Notes
The evolutionary synthesis reconciles classical Darwinian theory with Mendelian genetics, emphasizing the genetic mechanisms of evolution.