EPISTEMOLOGY AND METAPHYSIC IN DARWIN'S THEORY OF SEXUAL SELECTION

The theory of evolution by natural selection appeared for the first time in 1859 and, despite the initial opposition of some scientists and Churches, in a few years it established itself throughout Europe. Darwin's recognized prestige did not prevent him from criticism and open aversion when in 1871 he published The Descent of Man, a book in which he expounded the theory of sexual selection, which was contested and forgotten for over a century. Its rediscovery occurred when there was a change in epistemological paradigms, also under the influence of different social situations.