Definition

A theory in biology suggesting that the evolution of a species is mainly driven by internal factors rather than external influences like natural selection.

Example

The concept of orthogenesis proposes that species evolve in a predetermined direction over time.

Conversation

I was reading about orthogenesis in evolution last night.

Oh really? What's that all about?

It's the idea that species evolve more from internal factors than from natural selection.

That’s interesting! So, they follow a predetermined path, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Orthogenesis → It is formed from "ortho-" (from Greek "orthos", meaning straight or correct) and "genesis" (from Greek "genesis", meaning origin or creation). The word refers to the idea of a straight or directed path of development or evolution.

Memory Tip

Think of 'straight' ('ortho-') leading to 'creation' ('genesis') — this helps you remember that orthogenesis refers to a straight or directed development.

Visually Confused Words