6 SYMBIONTICISM AND THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES 



Of all the factors that play a r61e in such a process, one 

 factor, whatever it may be, is crucial or fundamental. The 

 remaining factors, obviously, would occupy varying degrees 

 of importance in the completion of the process. The 

 fundamental factor in the origin of chemical compounds 

 consists of the presence of two or more chemicals in close 

 spacial relationship. In order that a chemical reaction, 

 resulting in a new compound, shall take place it is also neces- 

 sary that various extrinsic factors be properly satisfied. 

 Obviously, these extrinsic factors are not necessarily the 

 same for different chemical combinations, but the funda- 

 mental factor, two or more chemicals in close proximity, is 

 invariably constant. Exceptions to these statements, ap- 

 parently, may be found in the inorganic world. It has been 

 claimed that it is possible to produce a more complex mole- 

 cule from a simpler one by the introduction of extrinsic 

 factors alone. It is possible, also, that such a process has 

 been operative in inorganic evolution, but, if so, it must be 

 emphasized that this is the exception and not the rule. In 

 our experimental laboratories, as well as in nature's labora- 

 tory, the presence of two or more chemicals appears to be 

 essential in the production of a new and more complex 

 molecule. Does the origin of species differ fundamentally 

 from the origin of chemical compounds? Are there funda- 

 mental factors and principles utihzed in organic evolution 

 which are absent in inorganic evolution? In recent years 

 we have come to realize that the gap between the organic 

 and the inorganic world is narrowing and it appears that 

 the time is not far distant when it may completely disappear. 

 Those activities and properties which only a few years ago 

 were classified as "vitaUstic" are today recognized as but 

 the ultimate expression of chemical and physical forces. 

 The vitalistic school, which at one time dominated biological 

 thought, has all but completely disappeared. There is no 

 evidence at hand to indicate that organic evolution is 



