Genetics and The Modern Synthesis: Crash Course History of Science

The video explores the evolution of biological sciences, focusing on the modern synthesis, which combines Mendelian genetics with Darwinian natural selection. Key figures like Dobzhansky, Fisher, and Haldane contributed to this framework, which remains influential. The video also discusses the impact of Lysenkoism in the Soviet Union, highlighting the political manipulation of science. Despite challenges, the modern synthesis established a robust foundation for evolutionary biology.

What were the main contributions of Darwin and Mendel to the field of biology?

How did the modern synthesis integrate Mendelian genetics with Darwinian natural selection?

In what ways did the work of Thomas Hunt Morgan contribute to the modern synthesis?

What role did Theodosius Dobzhansky play in the development of evolutionary genetics?

What were the implications of Dobzhansky's definition of evolution for the understanding of genetic variation?

What was the significance of Ronald A. Fisher's work in the context of natural selection?

How did the understanding of species change with the contributions of Ernst Mayr?

What were the main ideas presented in Julian Huxley's 'Evolution: The Modern Synthesis'?

What was the relationship between genetics and natural selection as understood by the modern synthesizers?

Describe the impact of Lysenkoism on Soviet genetics and agriculture.