In: Biology
The theory of evolution proposed by Lamark and Darwin has a few similarities but has significant difference on which it is based.
Both the theories suggest evolution is a gradual process, complex species evolve from simple ones. But the difference between Lamark's and Darwins theories lies in the key factors that drive this evolution.
Lamark proposed that evolution is driven by inheriting acquired traits in a species, some traits in a species are enhanced by the need to survive in an environment.The environment plays a pivotal role in inducing change in an organism. A popular example is the giraffes long neck, induced by the environment enabling them to provide access to food.The offspring of the giraffes inturn had even longer necks.They inherited the these environmentally induced traits.
Darwin's theorised that evolution is driven by surival of the fittest, the changes in a species occuring irrespective of the need.Occurence of random mutations in a species over time helping them with survival. Competition within a species for food , mate, survival of the fittest has been the basis.For example, running faster to escape from predator animals.