Gateway to Eden: Darwin, Lamarck, and the Ascent of Humanity

Abstract
This manuscript argues that emerging evidence for epigenetic and transgenerational inheritance undermines the common belief that evolution is only slow, Darwinian selection over millennia. If environments can produce heritable changes in gene expression across short time spans, then many cultural and political narratives built on fixed “human nature”—including Social-Darwinian rationalizations—require revision, especially under conditions of accelerating ecological and social stress.

Key Points

• Reintroduces Lamarckian mechanisms via epigenetics and transgenerational inheritance.
• Challenges Darwin-only public narratives used to naturalize inequality and exploitation.
• Connects biology to politics: environments shaped by institutions can shape human capacity.
• Frames “ascent” as a social/environmental project, not a genetic lottery.

Recommended citation: Sosteric, Mike. (Version .80). *Gateway to Eden: Darwin, Lamarck, and the Ascent of Humanity* (Manuscript).
Download Paper