Genetics and The Modern Synthesis: Crash Course History of Science

The video explores the evolution of biological sciences, focusing on the modern synthesis, which combines Mendelian genetics with Darwinian natural selection. Key figures like Dobzhansky, Fisher, and Haldane contributed to this framework, which remains influential. The video also discusses the impact of Lysenkoism in the Soviet Union, highlighting the political manipulation of science. Despite challenges, the modern synthesis established a robust foundation for evolutionary biology.

What was the main reason for biology's delayed integration into a unified framework compared to physics?

• Delayed recognition of Mendel's work

• Complexity of biological systems

• Insufficient funding for biological research

• Lack of interest in biological studies

How did Theodosius Dobzhansky contribute to the modern synthesis?

• By discovering the structure of DNA

• By studying genetic variation in wild fruit flies

• By developing the theory of relativity

• By inventing the microscope

What is the primary focus of population genetics?

• Studying individual gene mutations

• Analyzing gene variation in populations

• Developing new species in laboratories

• Mapping the human genome

Which scientist's work laid the foundation for biostatistics?

• JBS Haldane

• Ronald Fisher

• Thomas Hunt Morgan

• Julian Huxley

Which scientist is known for coining terms still used by evolutionary biologists today?

• Thomas Hunt Morgan

• Theodosius Dobzhansky

• Julian Huxley

• Ronald Fisher

What was the main focus of Julian Huxley's book 'Evolution: The Modern Synthesis'?

• The classification of species

• The study of human anatomy

• The integration of evolution and genetics

• The discovery of DNA

What was the main claim of Lysenkoism regarding plant genetics?

• Genetic traits are fixed and unchangeable

• All plants have identical genetic makeup

• Genetic variation is solely due to natural selection

• Plants can inherit traits based on their experiences

What was the impact of Lysenkoism on Soviet agriculture?

• It led to increased crop yields

• It caused a decline in agricultural productivity

• It introduced new farming technologies

• It had no significant impact

How did the Soviet Union's approach to genetics differ from the modern synthesis?

• They emphasized practical applications in agriculture

• They focused on theoretical genetics

• They prioritized human genetics over plant genetics

• They ignored genetic research entirely

What was the outcome for Nikolai Vavilov after Lysenko's rise to power?

• He was promoted to a higher position

• He continued his research without interference

• He was arrested and died in prison

• He was exiled to another country