Lysenko’s ideas go far beyond what Lamarck suggested. For example, even with modern developments in epigenetics there’s no way a wheat plant can produce rye seeds, any more than a cat can give birth to a dog. But — more importantly — Lysenko’s real innovations weren’t scientific at all. He knew how to curry favor with the political establishment, ensuring that his ideas were put into immediate large-scale production, avoiding any real testing or study. In fact, Lysenko was a political hero in his time, celebrated in the press, protected by Stalin, and even had a march composed in his honor. His success came not from his ideas (regardless of their value or lack of value), but his ability to bypassing the established science and scientists of the time.