"When will the time come when we may see Lamarck's theory
discussed--and, I may as well at once say, refuted in some important
points {225a}--with at any rate the respect due to one of the most
illustrious masters of our science? And when will this theory, the
hardihood of which has been greatly exaggerated, become freed from the
interpretations and commentaries by the false light of which so many
naturalists have followed their opinion concerning it? If its author
is to be condemned, let it be, at any rate, not before he has been
heard." {225b}
In 1873 M. Martin published his edition of Lamarck's _Philosophic
Zoologique_. He was still able to say, with, I believe, perfect truth,
that Lamarck's theory has "never yet had the honour of being discussed
seriously." {225c}
Professor Huxley in his article on Evolution is no less cavalier than Mr.
Wallace. He writes: {225d}--
"Lamarck introduced the conception of the action of an animal on
itself as a factor in producing modification."
Lamarck did nothing of the kind. It was Buffon and Dr. Darwin who
introduced this, but more especially Dr. Darwin. The accuracy of
Professor Huxley's statements about the history and literature of
evolution is like the direct interference of the Deity--it vanishes
whenever and wherever I have occasion to test it.
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