orthogenetic

[ awr-thoh-juh-net-ik ]

adjective

, Biology.

1. pertaining to or supporting the theory that evolution follows a predetermined course rather than branching off in different directions as a result of natural selection.

Word History and Origins

Origin of orthogenetic¹

First recorded in 1895–1900; from New Latin orthogenet- (stem of orthogenesis orthogenesis ) + -ic

Example Sentences

That evolution has been orthogenetic in the case of certain groups, seems to be well established, but many difficulties stand in the way of its acceptance as a general principle of explanation.

From Project Gutenberg

These instincts, more or less developed in boyhood, are repressed in normal cases before strength and skill are sufficiently developed to inflict serious bodily injury, while without the reductives that orthogenetic growth brings they become criminal.

From Project Gutenberg