Biology Quote by Pierre-Louis Moreau De Maupertuis
““Might one not say that in the chance combination of nature's production, since only those endowed with certain relations of suitability could survive, it is no cause for wonder that this suitability is found in all species that exist today? Chance, one might say, produced an innumerable multitude of individuals; a small number turned out to be constructed in such fashion that the parts of the animal could satisfy its needs; in another, infinitely greater number, there was neither suitability nor order: all of the later have perished; animals without a mouth could not live, others lacking organs for reproduction could not perpetuate themselves: the only ones to have remained are those in which were found order and suitability; and these species, which we see today, are only the smallest part of what blind fate produced.””
About This Quote
Source philosophy essay: The Principle of Reason, 1747
Nature’s blind chance produces many forms, but only suitably adapted species survive, showing a purposeful order amid randomness.
In simple terms: Only well‑adapted species survive nature’s random creation.
Key Takeaway
Adapt to your environment to thrive.
Themes
evolution
nature
survival
adaptation
randomness
Mood
thoughtful
inspired
analytical
Type
Biology:1
Blind:1
Chance:1
Evolution:1
Existence:1
Incredible:0
Innovation:0
Life:0
Natural selection:1
Nature:1
Purpose:0
Science:0
Struggle-for-life:0
Survival:1
Survival of the fittest:0
Wonder:0
Species Exist:0
Innumerable Multitude:0
Suitability Species:0
Suitability Survive:0
When to use this quote
- biology education
- environmental policy
- conservation work
- personal growth
- risk assessment
Key Concepts
blind chance
natural selection
fitness
order
Questions to Reflect On
- How does chance influence your life choices?
- What can you do to increase your suitability for future challenges?
A Different Perspective
Human agency also shapes survival beyond natural selection.
