I find in the domestic duck that the bones of the wing weigh less and the bones of the leg more, in proportion to the whole skeleton, than do the same bones in the wild duck; and this change may be safely attributed to the domestic duck flying much less, and walking more, than its wild parents.

The fact of evolution is the backbone of biology, and biology is thus in the peculiar position of being a science founded on an improved theory, is it then a science or faith?

...for the shield may be as important for victory, as the sword or spear.

At no time am I a quick thinker or writer: whatever I have done in science has solely been by long pondering, patience and industry.

It may be conceit, but I believe the subject will interest the public, and I am sure that the views are original.

It is like confessing to a murder.

When the views entertained in this volume on the origin of species, or when analogous views are generally admitted, we can dimly forsee that there will be a considerable revolution in natural history.