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I've heard that Darwin himself repudiated his own theory
in later years - can anyone corraborate?

I've heard that Darwin himself repudiated his own theory in later years - can anyone corraborate?

Not that it would matter if he did, but no. Here's a link The Lady Hope Story

"I've heard that Darwin himself repudiated his own theory
in later years - can anyone corraborate?"

In Darwin's own book, THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES, he describes many of the deficiencies of his theory. Because of this, and the many discoveries since Darwin's time, it is doubtful Darwin would subscribe to his own theory in the same exact form. Scientific theories evolve, just as do species. So, how might Darwin's theory have evolved from the original of 1859?

Well, consider that some complex systems of an organism would be difficult to evolve or create one step at a time. However, this is exactly what the theory of evolution supposes. The theory of evolution postulates that as a mutation occurs that if it provides selective advantage, it becomes a part of the gene pool and proliferates. Indeed, there is absolutely no doubt this happens. This part of the theory is correct. However, what about adaptive advantages that would require multiple simutanous mutually beneficial mutations? Darwin had a problem with these himself! Why? Remember, a mutation is essentially a birth defect. How many birth defects are beneficial? How often are multiple birth defects with a mutually reinforcing purpose going to occur? Not very often, if ever, by chance that is! But, given the limited knowledge of the 1850's it still seemed it might be possible. Today it is known that the systems of living organisms are much more complex than thought earlier. That these complex systems requiring multiple changes at the same time to be created all could have evolved merely from happenstance errors which by chance were beneficial is highly unlikely. Darwin would, in my opinion, likely agree. He was very scientific and would go with what the evidence indicates.

So, how might the theory of evolution be modified to fit the problem of complex systems impossible to create with only one birth defect at a time? Why, with the theory of intelligent design, which does not deny that evolution occurs. It merely says that along the the way, there is a guiding hand.

I've heard that Darwin himself repudiated his own theory in later years - can anyone corraborate?

No, no one can, although many have tried.

You'll note, though, that this doesn't stop creationists from repeating it endlessly. Let this be a lesson on the quality of their honesty and reliability.