It is really laughable to see what different ideas are prominent in various naturalists' minds, when they speak of 'species'; in some, resemblance is everything and descent of little weight-in some, resemblance seems to go for nothing, and Creation the reigning idea-in some, descent is the key,-in some, sterility an unfailing test, with others it is not worth a farthing. It all comes, I believe, from trying to define the undefinable.
Charles DarwinGreat is the power of steady misrepresentation; but the history of science shows that fortunately this power does not long endure.
Charles DarwinI always make special notes about evidence that contridicts me: supportive evidence I can remember without trying.
Charles DarwinOur descent, then, is the origin of our evil passions!! The devil under form of Baboon is our grandfather.
Charles DarwinOften a cold shudder has run through me, and I have asked myself whether I may have not devoted myself to a fantasy.
Charles DarwinThe earthquake, however, must be to every one a most impressive event: the earth, considered from our earliest childhood as the type of solidity, has oscillated like a thin crust beneath our feet; and in seeing the laboured works of man in a moment overthrown, we feel the insignificance of his boasted power.
Charles Darwin