Who is known as the father of evolutionary biology?

The title of "father of evolutionary biology" is most appropriately attributed to Charles Darwin. His groundbreaking work in the mid-19th century, particularly with the publication of "On the Origin of Species" in 1859, revolutionized the understanding of how species evolve over time through the process of natural selection. Darwin proposed that individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, thus passing those traits to future generations. This concept was foundational in the development of evolutionary theory, providing a scientific framework that explains the diversity of life on Earth.

Darwin’s ideas were not created in a vacuum; they were also influenced by the work of other scientists. For instance, Alfred Russel Wallace independently conceived a theory of evolution by natural selection similar to Darwin's. However, it was Darwin’s extensive research, observations, and publication that established him as the leading figure in the field. Other figures mentioned, like Lamarck, who suggested an early theory of evolution through inheritance of acquired characteristics, and Cuvier, who is well-known for his contributions to paleontology and his theory of catastrophism, do not hold the same foundational role in the development of evolutionary biology as Darwin does.