Natural selection is the primary driving factor of evolution. In this section, we examine the fundamental mechanism of survival and reproduction of the fittest individuals, through which adaptations to constantly changing environmental conditions are formed.
The material in this section focuses on two key topics. First, we will study the classical concept of natural selection: its prerequisites, mechanisms, and main forms (stabilizing, directional, and disruptive). In the second part, we will move on to the action of natural selection in human populations, where biological patterns are inextricably linked with social and medical factors.
Seminars and colloquia most frequently test the second part: instructors require an explanation of why natural selection in modern humans has not disappeared, but merely changed direction. Be prepared to provide classical medical examples—from the spread of the sickle-cell anemia gene in malaria-endemic regions to the development of resistance to infections.