2. Which of these was NOT included in Darwin and Wallace's theory of natural selection?

a. variability
b. high reproductive rates
c. survival of the most fit.
d. traits passed on from parents to offspring.
e. mutation.

I don't remember the word mutation until genetics was discovered.

Bob- I'm torn between mutation and variability. Does that help?

To determine which of these options was NOT included in Darwin and Wallace's theory of natural selection, let's go through each option and see if it aligns with their theory.

a. variability: This is included in their theory. Darwin and Wallace observed that individuals within a population vary in their traits, providing the raw materials for natural selection.

b. high reproductive rates: This is also included. Darwin and Wallace recognized that species generally produce more offspring than can survive, leading to competition for resources and the selection of individuals with traits that enhance their reproductive success.

c. survival of the most fit: This is a key aspect of their theory. Darwin and Wallace proposed that individuals with traits that are well-suited to their environment have a higher chance of surviving and reproducing, passing on their favorable traits to their offspring.

d. traits passed on from parents to offspring: This is essential to their theory. Darwin and Wallace understood that traits are inherited from parents to offspring, allowing favorable traits to accumulate and spread through populations over time.

e. mutation: You are correct in considering this option. While Darwin and Wallace did not have knowledge of genetics and the specific mechanism of mutation, it can be argued that the concept of variation, which arises from mutation, is inherently part of their theory. Variability is a cornerstone of natural selection, and mutations are one of the sources of variation within a population.

Therefore, based on our analysis, the option that was NOT explicitly included in Darwin and Wallace's theory of natural selection is e. mutation. Remember that this is because they did not specifically use the term "mutation" and did not have the knowledge of genetics as we do today. However, the concept of variability, which encompasses the effects of mutation, is an integral part of their theory.