Which of the following favored the theory of spontaneous generation?
a. Spallanzani
b. Needham
c. Pasteur
d. Koch

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the theory of spontaneous generation, which suggests that life can arise from non-living matter.
2. Identify key historical figures associated with the debate over spontaneous generation.
3. Recall that John Needham conducted experiments that he believed supported spontaneous generation, as he observed microbial growth in boiled broths that were not sealed properly.
4. Recognize that Lazzaro Spallanzani, Louis Pasteur, and Robert Koch were scientists who conducted experiments that refuted spontaneous generation.
5. Conclude that among the given options, Needham is the scientist who favored the theory of spontaneous generation.

Key Concepts

Spontaneous Generation

Spontaneous generation is the discredited biological theory that living organisms can arise from non-living matter. This idea was prevalent before the development of modern microbiology and was used to explain phenomena such as the appearance of maggots on decaying meat. Understanding this concept is crucial for analyzing historical debates in microbiology regarding the origins of life.

Experiments of Needham

Lazzaro Spallanzani and John Needham conducted experiments in the 18th century that contributed to the debate on spontaneous generation. Needham's experiments involved boiling broth and then sealing it, which he claimed still produced microbial life, suggesting that life could arise spontaneously. His findings were pivotal in supporting the spontaneous generation theory, despite later criticisms and experiments that challenged his conclusions.

Pasteur's Contributions

Louis Pasteur is renowned for his experiments that disproved spontaneous generation. Through his swan-neck flask experiment, he demonstrated that microorganisms in the air were responsible for contamination, not spontaneous generation. Pasteur's work laid the foundation for germ theory and established the importance of sterilization and aseptic techniques in microbiology, fundamentally changing our understanding of microbial life.