Erasmus Darwin and the Tree of Life

Abstract

Erasmus Darwin proposed in the 18th century the transmutation of species and the laws of organic life (artificial, natural and sexual selection), but he was not understood at that time. Besides, his views have been little explored and discussed by historians of science. The objective of this article is not only to discuss aspects in which he was based following Jean-Jacques Russeau, Adam Smith and David Hume ideas, but also Erasmus Darwin’s own contributions.