Darwin originally defined evolution as __________.

• A. the passing of acquired characteristics to offspring
• B. an individual's ability to adapt to its environment
• C. a way to classify organisms based on morphological similarities
• D. None of the listed responses is correct.
• E. descent with modification

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the concept of evolution as defined by Charles Darwin. Darwin's theory of evolution is centered around the idea of 'descent with modification.' This means that species change over time, and these changes are passed down to subsequent generations.
2. Consider the options provided in the problem. The first option, 'the passing of acquired characteristics to offspring,' refers to Lamarckian evolution, which is not the concept Darwin proposed.
3. The second option, 'an individual's ability to adapt to its environment,' describes adaptation, which is a part of the evolutionary process but not the definition of evolution itself.
4. The third option, 'a way to classify organisms based on morphological similarities,' relates to taxonomy, which is the classification of organisms, not the process of evolution.
5. Finally, evaluate the statement 'None of the listed responses is correct.' Given the explanation of Darwin's definition of evolution as 'descent with modification,' this statement is correct because none of the other options accurately describe Darwin's definition of evolution.