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 study of nature is a never-ending journey of discovery.
The human race has a responsibility to protect the natural world.
The beauty of the natural world is a reflection of the divine.
The most profound truths are often the simplest.
The future of humanity depends on our ability to live in harmony with nature.
The world is full of wonders, if only we take the time to look.
The study of evolution has profoundly changed our understanding of life on Earth.
The human intellect, in its highest developments, is something more than the product of natural selection.
The whole theory of natural selection is based upon the general principle that in every generation, the individuals which are best adapted to their environment survive and reproduce.
The vast and complex phenomena of nature are all interconnected and interdependent.
The greatest discoveries are often made by those who dare to question established beliefs.
The true scientist is one who is always open to new ideas and evidence.
The beauty and diversity of life on Earth are a testament to the power of evolution.
The study of the natural world is a source of endless fascination and wonder.
The human mind is capable of comprehending the most intricate designs of nature.
The preservation of species is a moral imperative.
The universe is a grand and awe-inspiring creation.
I have been much struck by the fact that in the Malay Archipelago, where the natural productions are so various and abundant, there is a constant struggle for existence, and that the most vigorous and best adapted survive.
I have never yet met with a single fact which contradicts the theory of natural selection.
The great law of nature is, that the best adapted survive.
Contemporaries of Alfred Russel Wallace
Other Biologys born within 50 years of Alfred Russel Wallace (1823–1913).