The Principles of Biology, Volume 1 (of 2)Spencer, Herbert
Science
The Principles of Biology, Volume 1 (of 2)
Spencer, Herbert
Biology
Understood in this qualified form, our conclusions are these. First, that
growth being an integration with the organism of such environing matters as
are of like natures with the matters composing the organism, its growth is
dependent on the available supply of them. Second, that the available
supply of assimilable matter being the same, and other conditions not
dissimilar, the degree of growth varies according to the surplus of
nutrition over expenditure--a generalization which is illustrated in some
of the broader contrasts between different divisions of organisms. Third,
that in the same organism the surplus of nutrition over expenditure differs
at different stages; and that growth is unlimited or has a definite limit,
according as the surplus does or does not rapidly decrease. This
proposition we found exemplified by the almost unceasing growth of
organisms that expend relatively little energy; and by the definitely
limited growth of organisms that expend much energy. Fourth, that among
organisms which are large expenders of force, the size ultimately attained
is, other things equal, determined by the initial size: in proof of which
conclusion we have abundant facts, as well as the _a priori_ necessity that
the sum-totals of analogous diminishing series, must depend upon the
amounts of their initial terms. Fifth, that where the likeness of other
circumstances permits a comparison, the possible extent of growth depends
on the degree of organization; an inference testified to by the larger
forms among the various divisions and sub-divisions of organisms.
CHAPTER II.
DEVELOPMENT.[19]
§ 50. Certain general aspects of Development may be studied apart from any
examination of internal structures. These fundamental contrasts between the
modes of arrangement of parts, originating, as they do, the leading
external distinctions among the various forms of organization, will be best
dealt with at the outset. If all organisms have arisen by Evolution, it is
of course not to be expected that such several modes of development can be
absolutely demarcated: we are sure to find them united by transitional
modes. But premising that a classification of modes can but approximately
represent the facts, we shall find our general conceptions of Development
aided by one.
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