orthogenesis

or·tho·gen·e·sis  (ôrth-jn-ss)

n.

1. Biology The theory that the evolution of a species is influenced most strongly by internal factors and is not subject to the external forces of natural selection.

2. The theory that all cultures pass through sequential periods in the same order.

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ortho·ge·netic (-j-ntk) adj.

ortho·ge·neti·cal·ly adv.

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orthogenesis

progressive evolution, leading to the development of a new form, as can be seen through successive generations. See also society. — orthogenetic, adj.

See also: Biology

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progressive evolution, leading to the development of a new form, as can be seen through successive generations. See also society. — orthogenetic, adj.

See also: Evolution

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the sociological theory that all cultures or societies follow the same fixed course of determinate evolution. See also evolution. — orthogenetic, adj.

See also: Society