Lamarckian inheritance
Definition: An erroneous theory, perpetuated by Jean- Baptiste, Chevalier de Lamarck, stating that, if an individual strives in a certain direction, any resulting change will be passed on to the next generation. A giraffe, for example, that is constantly reaching for higher leaves, will lengthen its neck. This longer neck would then be passed to the giraffešs offspring. Of course, such acquired characteristics do not translate into genetic change, and therefore arenšt subject to heredity. Related Words:
