The Origin of Species Chapter 2 - Variation Under Nature

In which the naturalist delicately explores the subtle gradations of variation among organic beings in their natural state, pondering the fluid boundaries between what we call species, varieties, and individual differences, and revealing the intimate connection between common, widespread forms and their manifold varieties. He further observes that species of large genera exhibit greater variability and closer affinities, suggesting a continuity of descent rather than independent creation, and thus setting the stage for understanding the dynamic and branching nature of life’s diversity.