| 1884.] The Theory of Sex and Sexual Genesis. 667 
THE THEORY OF SEX AND SEXUAL GENESIS. 
BY C. M. HOLLINGSWORTH. 
sexual genesis the germinal aggregate with which the devel- 
opment of the new individual begins is the product of the 
union of two generative cells. One of the combining cells—the 
female element, or germ-cell—is a very large one; while the 
other—the male element, or sperm-cell—is a very small one. 
Their union is effected by the sperm-cell, or its generative matter, 
penetrating into the body of the germ-cell ; and the former loses 
its identity and integrity as a cell in the act of union, while the 
latter does not. Sexual genesis, in its initial stage, is thus a dual 
process, consisting in the codperation or combined action of two 
factors, and these factors are comprised in the contents of genera- 
tive cells that are morphologically distinct. 
The fundamental problem in the theory of sexual genesis, with 
regard to the physiology of the process, is this: Are the two 
of the process represented in these two classes of morpho- 
logically distinct generative cells likewise functionally distinct, 
and complementary the one of the other? And, if so, What are 
the physiological differences between them, and what the need 
and rationale of their observed mode of coöperation in the gen- 
trative process ? 
Besides explaining the physiological differences anā relations 
to each other of the male and female generative elements, an 
adequate theory of sex and sexual genesis must also explain the 
‘related morphological and functional differences between male 
and female organs or organisms. 
: The Advantage of Genesis by Germ-cells—The development of 
àn individual organism may begin with the contents of a single gen- 
trative cell, which may or may not be the product of the union of 
: two cells, or it may begin with a bud or gemma composed either of 
z “88regate of untransformed cells or of portions of partially _ 
differentiated tissues. Leaving out of consideration for the pres- 
P Ad fact that in sexual genesis the original contents of the 
Moa er requires impregnation by a sperm-cell in order to enter 
that the oma! developmental changes, I wish here to point out 
+ the former mode of the origin of new individuals gives an 
important : oA : i far as per- 
Pctuation advantage in the perpetuation of species, So pe 
depends on the production of a great number of off- 
