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)
My dear Sir, I have read your paper with the greatest interest and attention. To my mind, it is a most admirable summary of the arguments in favour of the theory of Natural Selection.
The more I see of the world, the more I am convinced that there is a spiritual element in man which is not to be found in the lower animals.
I am a firm believer in the reality of spiritual phenomena.
The universe is not a mere machine, but a living organism.
I have always been an ardent lover of nature, and have found my greatest pleasure in studying her works.
The study of nature is the most delightful and elevating pursuit that a man can engage in.
I have been much struck by the wonderful beauty and variety of the productions of nature.
The more I examine the works of nature, the more I am filled with admiration for the wisdom and power of the Creator.
I am convinced that there is a purpose in everything that exists.
The human mind is capable of understanding the most profound mysteries of the universe.
I have always been an independent thinker, and have never been afraid to express my own opinions.
The greatest pleasure in life is to discover new truths.
I have always been a seeker after truth, and have never rested content with superficial explanations.
The world is full of wonders, and it is our duty to explore them.
I have always been a lover of freedom, and have never submitted to tyranny.
The greatest good is the greatest happiness of the greatest number.
I am a firm believer in social justice, and have always advocated for the rights of the oppressed.
The land should belong to the people, not to a few wealthy individuals.
The present system of land tenure is a great injustice, and ought to be abolished.
I am convinced that the future of humanity depends on the adoption of more just and equitable social arrangements.
Contemporaries of Alfred Russel Wallace
Other Biologys born within 50 years of Alfred Russel Wallace (1823–1913).