Who is known for the theory of evolution by natural selection?

The theory of evolution by natural selection is most famously associated with Charles Darwin. This foundational concept in biology suggests that organisms with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. Darwin formulated this theory during his voyage on the HMS Beagle in the 1830s and published his findings in the groundbreaking work "On the Origin of Species" in 1859.

His research provided a mechanism for evolution, illustrating how species adapt over time through a gradual process. This evidence-based approach transformed the understanding of biology and the interconnectedness of life on Earth. The acceptance of Darwin's theory marked a significant shift in scientific thought, enabling future research in genetics and ecology.

While others, such as Albert Einstein, contributed significantly to scientific understanding in physics, and figures like Isaac Newton laid down important principles of motion and gravity, it is Darwin who is primarily credited with pioneering the ideas surrounding evolution and natural selection. Louis Pasteur, while essential in the field of microbiology and germ theory, did not focus on evolution in the same way that Darwin did.