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 true measure of a society is how it treats its weakest members.
I have always been an optimist, and have never despaired of the future of humanity.
The greatest hope for the future lies in the spread of knowledge and education.
I have always believed in the power of reason to solve the problems of humanity.
The human mind is capable of indefinite progress.
I am convinced that there is a moral law in the universe, and that we are bound to obey it.
The greatest happiness is to live in harmony with nature and with our fellow human beings.
I have always been a lover of peace, and have always advocated for the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
War is a great evil, and ought to be abolished.
The future of humanity depends on our ability to live together in peace and cooperation.
I have always been a believer in the unity of all life.
The earth is our common home, and we ought to take care of it.
I am convinced that we have a moral obligation to protect the environment for future generations.
The destruction of nature is a great crime against humanity.
I have always been a champion of conservation, and have always advocated for the protection of endangered species.
The beauty of nature is a source of endless inspiration and joy.
I have always found solace in the contemplation of nature.
The study of nature is a pathway to understanding the divine.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have explored so much of the natural world.
My life has been a journey of discovery, and I have learned much from my travels.
Contemporaries of Alfred Russel Wallace
Other Biologys born within 50 years of Alfred Russel Wallace (1823–1913).