Evolutionary plasticity can be purchased only at the…
“Evolutionary plasticity can be purchased only at the ruthlessly dear price of continuously sacrificing some individuals to death from unfavourable mutations. Bemoaning this imperfection of nature has, however, no place in a scientific treatment of this subject.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Evolutionary change requires sacrificing less fit individuals, a harsh but necessary cost of natural selection.
In simple terms: Evolution needs sacrifice of weaker individuals.
Key Takeaway
Accept natural selection’s role in progress.
Themes
evolution
natural selection
trade‑offs
survival
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
scientific
philosophical
When to use this quote
- conservation biology
- medical research
- agricultural breeding
- population management
Key Concepts
biological science
ethical considerations
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ethical to intervene in natural selection?
- How do we balance progress with compassion?
A Different Perspective
The moral framing can ignore the suffering of individuals.