22 Biology -- Theories of Evolution

Explain about Neo-Lamarckism and its postulates.

Explain about Neo-Lamarckism and its postulates.

Neo-Lamarckism, also known as New Lamarckism, is a group of theories that developed from Jean-Baptiste Lamarck's original theories in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These theories sought to preserve some aspects of Lamarckian inheritance while also incorporating new scientific knowledge, such as genetic discoveries. It's crucial to remember that Neo-Lamarckism is a minority view in mainstream biology and is not widely accepted.

(Long story short, it is the glow up of Lamarckism.)


Neo-Lamarckism incorporates the following key concepts:

  • Epigenetic inheritance: Epigenetics is the study of variations in gene expression that can be passed down through the generations without affecting the DNA sequence itself. It is argued that these epigenetic modifications brought on by experiences or environmental factors can be inherited and contribute to evolutionary change.
  • Lamarckian-like Processes: Neo-Lamarckism postulates that certain  traits acquired through a variety of mechanisms, including direct environmental effects on the organism, behavioral changes, and physiological adaptations,  etc. can be passed down to an organism's offspring. 
  • Germplasm theory: It also incorporates the idea that somatic cell variations are caused by environmental factors and are not inherited. However, variations in germ cells can be inherited and are unaffected.

More questions on Theories of Evolution

Close Open App