Who developed the theory of gradualism?

The concept of gradualism is primarily attributed to James Hutton, who is often recognized as the father of modern geology. Hutton proposed that the Earth's geological features are the result of slow and continuous processes, rather than sudden, catastrophic events. This idea emphasized that the changes in the Earth's crust occur over immense periods of time, allowing for the slow accumulation of geological formations.

In Hutton's view, processes such as erosion, sedimentation, and volcanic activity contribute to the gradual shaping of the Earth's surface. This perspective laid the foundation for later scientific thought, influencing both geology and the field of evolutionary biology. It is particularly significant because it supports the understanding of gradual change in both Earth's geology and the evolution of species.

While figures like Charles Darwin and Charles Lyell made substantial contributions to the understanding of natural selection and the gradual change of species, it was Hutton who first articulated the principles of gradualism in geology. Consequently, his emphasis on slow, incremental change forms a crucial part of our understanding of both geology and evolutionary processes.