Theodosius Dobzhansky: his life and scholarly contributions

DOI: https://doi.org/10.7124/FEEO.v36.1732
Keywords: T. Dobzhansky, evolutionary geneticist, population genetics, modern evolutionary synthesis

Abstract

The article is dedicated to a comprehensive analysis of the biography, academic activity, and scientific environment of the outstanding American biologist and evolutionary geneticist of Ukrainian origin, Theodosius Grygorovych Dobzhansky. He is one of the main architects of the modern evolutionary synthesis that united Darwinism with genetics. The study presents a periodization of the scientist’s life path, highlighting major events and his professional activity, which, according to his scientific research and areas of interest, are represented in zoological, genetic, and evolutionary aspects. It is shown that in his scientific endeavors, T. Dobzhansky prioritized research and creative work. He studied chromosomal mutations, explored gene pools of populations, and developed the fundamental principles of the synthetic theory of evolution. His experiments with Drosophila provided laboratory evidence of natural selection and genetic variation in populations. He was among the first to investigate genetic processes in natural populations, which enabled him to explain the mechanisms of speciation through genetic isolation and selection. T. Dobzhansky introduced a new concept of «species», which remains relevant among geneticists to this day. His key publications are «Genetics and the Origin of Species» (1937, 1941, 1951), «The Biological Basis of Human Freedom» (1954), «Mankind Evolving» (1962), and «The Biology of Ultimate Concern» (1967). These publications formed a new paradigm in biology and laid the foundation for further research, influencing several generations of scientists worldwide.

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