Born in 1857 in Wisconsin, Veblen spoke English with an accent. Graduated from Carleton College in three years and earned PhD from Yale. Spent seven years reading on his father's farm after graduation
Born in Berlin in 1818 to poor immigrant father and Huguenot mother. Studied at French College and University of Berlin, initially focusing on ecclesiastical history. Became assistant to Johannes Peter Müller in physiology in 1840
Darwin proposed evolution through natural selection in 1859's "Origin of Species". Species develop through inherited traits that enhance survival and reproduction. Environment determines which traits are passed on, not individuals. Theory lacks consideration of innate traits and genetic change