Although the science of genetics began with the work of Gregor Mendel in the mid-1800s, there were some theories of inheritance that preceded Mendel. A popular theory during Mendel's time was the concept of blending inheritance: the idea that individuals inherit a smooth blend of traits from their parents. Mendel's work disproved this, showing that traits are composed of combinations of distinct genes rather than a continuous blend. Also popular at the time was the theory of inheritance of acquired characteristics: the belief that individuals inherit traits that have been strengthened in their parents. This theory (commonly associated with Jean-Baptiste Lamarck) is now known to be wrong, the experiences of individuals do not affect the genes they pass to their children.
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
counter