When Darwin published 'On the Origin of Species,' the mechanism of heredity remained unknown—Mendel's work on genetics wouldn't be rediscovered until 1900. Critics argued that without understanding how traits are passed down, Darwin's theory was incomplete. Darwin acknowledged this gap but maintained that the pattern of evidence for evolution was overwhelming, even if the mechanism awaited discovery.
It can be inferred from the text that
Darwin knew about Mendel's genetic research
the theory of evolution was rejected until genetics was understood
scientific evidence can never support a theory with unknown mechanisms
recognizing a pattern can sometimes precede full understanding of the mechanisms that produce it
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Darwin saw the pattern of evolution before the genetic mechanism was known.
- Context clues: Evolution was supported by evidence; heredity mechanism unknown until later.
- Meaning: Pattern recognition can precede mechanistic understanding.
- Verify: Darwin maintained the evidence was "overwhelming" despite the gap.
💡 Strategy: When something is established before complete explanation exists, infer that pattern can precede mechanism.
Choice A is incorrect because Mendel's work "wouldn't be rediscovered until 1900"—after Darwin. Choice B is incorrect because Darwin "maintained" the evidence was overwhelming despite the gap. Choice C is incorrect because Darwin successfully argued from pattern despite unknown mechanism.