694 Studies in the Theory of Descent. 



II. 



MECHANISM AND TELEOLOGY. 



IN the third volume of his smaller works Karl 

 Ernst von Baer submits the theory of selection 

 to a most searching examination. Without 

 actually calling in question its scientific admissi- 

 bility, he believes that this theory is dependent 

 upon its satisfying one condition, viz. that it 

 should connect the teleological with the me- 

 chanical principle. 



" The Darwinian hypothesis, as stated by its 

 supporters, always ends in denying to the pro- 

 cesses of nature any relation to a future, i.e. any 

 relation of aim or design. Since such relations 

 appear to me quite evident" &c. And further: 

 " If the scientific correctness of the Darwinian 

 hypothesis is to be admitted, it must accommodate 

 itself to this universal striving after a purpose. 

 If it cannot do this we should have to deny its 

 value." 



These words appear almost equivalent to 

 passing a sentence of doom upon the theory of 



