CHAPTER III.
A SUMMARY OF THE DOCTRINE OF EVOLUTION.
Organic Life Had No Absolute Commencement.
For the purpose of having the theory of Evolution before us in contrast with what is to be stated, and to observe what Evolution implies and to what it leads, it may be well to review a brief summary of its fundamental principles as stated by an acknowledged authority. Though there are other more distinguished investigators, Spencer is unquestionably entitled to the rank of the ablest defender of Evolution. The following collection of quotations, which admirably presents the substance of the theory, are from his Principles of Biology. These strong assertions, unsurpassed in clearness, frankness, and fulness, show the true character of Evolution.
"Absolute commencement of organic life on the globe, I distinctly deny. The affirmation of universal Evolution is in itself the negation of an absolute commencement of anything. Construed in terms of Evolution every kind of being is conceived as a product of modifications
