Evolution and Revolution are two terms that are often confused due to their seemingly similar concepts, but they have distinct differences. Both words function as nouns, with evolution originating from the early 17th century and revolution from Late Middle English. Each term has derivatives, such as evolutionism and evolutionary for evolution, and revolutionism and revolutionist for revolution.
What does Evolution mean?
The dictionary definition of evolution is “gradual development of something or a gradual process in which something changes from one stage to another.” In essence, evolution refers to a process where something passes through different stages, generally progressive, over time. Evolution is related to the change in human behavior and social conditions over time. It deals with changes that occur in populations over time and the theories that explain these changes. Evolution is based on observations, empirical data, and tested hypotheses.
Various theories about human evolution are based on observations of human responses to social conditions and behavioral changes influenced by the growth of civilization.
Key Takeaways
- Evolution refers to the gradual development or changes in something over a period.
- Revolution means ‘a turn around’; a sudden, complete, or radical change in something.
- Revolution is the fundamental change in something in a staggeringly short period, while evolution is based on observations, empirical data, and tested hypotheses.
What does Revolution mean?
Revolution is derived from the Latin word “revolutio,” meaning ‘a turn around.’ It can be defined as a sudden, complete, or radical change in something. Revolution consists of fundamental changes in organizational structures or political power that occur in a very short period. This is the primary difference between evolution and revolution.
Aristotle identified two types of political revolution: complete change from one constitution to another, and modification of an existing constitution. Throughout human history, numerous revolutions have taken place, impacting culture, economy, and socio-political conditions. Sometimes, the term revolution is used to describe changes outside of the political sphere, such as cultural, social, or philosophical revolutions.
What is the difference between Evolution and Revolution?
- Evolution refers to the gradual development or changes in something over a period.
- Revolution means ‘a turn around’; a sudden, complete, or radical change in something.
- Revolution is the fundamental change in something in a staggeringly short period, while evolution is based on observations, empirical data, and tested hypotheses.
- Revolution brings about changes in culture, economy, and even socio-political conditions.
