The life of Jean-Baptiste Lamarck (1744–1829) was a true odyssey, unfolding during a pivotal period in French history. Born under Louis XV, he lived through eight political regimes and died under Charles X. A passionate botanist and member of the Academy of Sciences, he eventually became a professor of zoology at the Natural History Museum. Both his financial situation and his scientific standing evolved in tandem with the political upheavals of the time. It is therefore illuminating to understand the context in which his works – which address fundamental questions in biology – were conceived. This book does not offer a detailed analysis of Lamarck’s works. Its purpose is different: it seeks to examine at what points in his life and under what circumstances Lamarck was led to produce his various works. As much as possible, the book “gives voice” to Lamarck by presenting his own writings, which reveal his projects – whether successful or not – as well as his doubts and hopes, during a period when he was often ahead of the prevailing view.
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