Alfred Russel Wallace
Independently conceived the theory of evolution by natural selection and made significant contributions to biogeography.
Most quoted
"The action of this principle is exactly like that of the centrifugal governor of the steam engine, which checks and corrects any irregularities almost before they become evident; and in like manner no unbalanced deficiency in the animal kingdom can ever have continued to exist."
— from Letter to Charles Darwin, 1858
"The great superiority of the human intellect over that of the lower animals, and the fact that this superiority is not required by the conditions of savage life, seem to me to be an insuperable difficulty in the way of the theory of natural selection."
— from Contributions to the Theory of Natural Selection
"The general result of the study of the fossil remains of the extinct mammalia is to show that the forms most nearly allied to those now living were the latest, and that the more ancient forms differ more and more widely from the existing types."
— from Island Life, 1880
All quotes by Alfred Russel Wallace (406)
The human heart is capable of infinite love.
Compassion is the highest virtue.
Justice is the foundation of all true society.
The purpose of government is to promote the welfare of all its citizens.
Education is the key to human progress.
The advancement of science is essential for the well-being of humanity.
The universe is a vast and mysterious place, full of wonders.
The human mind is capable of exploring the depths of the universe.
The spiritual realm is not separate from the material realm, but interpenetrates it.
The true nature of reality is spiritual.
The human being is a spiritual being, temporarily inhabiting a physical body.
The purpose of life is to awaken to our true spiritual nature.
The universe is a school, and life is a lesson.
Every experience, whether good or bad, is an opportunity for growth.
Suffering is a catalyst for spiritual transformation.
The greatest challenges in life are also the greatest opportunities.
Hope is the anchor of the soul.
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Love is the most powerful force in the universe.
Forgiveness is the key to inner peace.
Contemporaries of Alfred Russel Wallace
Other Biologys born within 50 years of Alfred Russel Wallace (1823–1913).