Traits are usually favored by natural selection only when they result in more reproductively successful offspring. In many cases, increases in individual fitness are obtained in ways that reduce individual life span. In many cases, increases in individual fitness are obtained in ways that reduce the number of offspring per parent. Most traits exist for the benefit of the individual rather than for the good of the species. While natural selection explains evolutionary modifications within lineages, speciation explains evolutionary branching and diversification.
Speciation can occur in only a single generation.
Evolutionary theory is central to modern biological science. Biological evolution is one of the strongest scientific theories known. The attached outline contains much of the conceptual basis for the ENSI project. Its essential content was presented and discussed during the ENSI institutes. Careful reading and review of this material will be most valuable before the lessons on this site are used in your classes.