by highsorcerer » Thursday 6 November 2003 8:48:30pm
Well, there are a number of ways you might explain it, though genetics seem to be the best theory to work with. Pure-bloods generally produce magical children (Squibs are rare). There are plenty of half bloods who can use magic (Hagrid, Voldemort, and Seamus Finnigan to name a few). We know of at least 5 person who had two non magical parents (Lily Evans Potter, Dean Thomas, Hermoine Granger, Colin Creevey, and Dennis Creevey). Following the genetic line, recessive genes would account for muggle-born wizards (though both Creevey brothers would defy probabilty, though not possibility), otherwise you could put it down to mutation (which is about the only way to account for Squibs along the genetic line).
Third factor intrevention would be another, with genetic predisposition would be another working theory. This would be similar to the way the Force works in the Star Wars Universe, with midi-chlorins providing the link between organics and the Force. The only reason I put in genetic predisposition is that the only known children of a Jedi Knight (procreation seems to be forbidden among Jedi) eventually become Jedi Knights themselves (in the films, Anakin Skywalker fathers both Luke Skywalker and Leia Bail Organia; Luke who becomes a Jedi in the final film, and Leia exhibiting Jedi traits in both Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Books carry it a bit further, with Leia becoming stronger in the Force and her children strong in the Force as well).