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Evolution: The Remarkable History Of A Scientific Theory (Modern Library Chronicles),New
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I often said before starting, that I had no doubt I should frequently repent of the whole undertaking. So wrote Charles Darwin aboard The Beagle, bound for the Galapagos Islands and what would arguably become the greatest and most controversial discovery in scientific history. But the theory of evolution did not spring fullblown from the head of Darwin. Since the dawn of humanity, priests, philosophers, and scientists have debated the origin and development of life on earth, and with modern science, that debate shifted into high gear.In this lively, deeply erudite work, Pulitzer Prizewinning science historian Edward J. Larson takes us on a guided tour of Darwins dangerous idea, from its theoretical antecedents in the early nineteenth century to the brilliant breakthroughs of Darwin and Wallace, to Watson and Cricks stunning discovery of the DNA double helix, and to the triumphant neoDarwinian synthesis and rising sociobiology today.Along the way, Larson expertly places the scientific upheaval of evolution in cultural perspective: the social and philosophical earthquake that was the French Revolution; the development, in England, of a laissezfaire capitalism in tune with a Darwinian ethos of survival of the fittest; the emergence of Social Darwinism and the dark science of eugenics against a backdrop of industrial revolution; the American Christian backlash against evolutionism that culminated in the famous Scopes trial; and on to todays world, where religious fundamentalists litigate for the right to teach creation science alongside evolution in U.S. public schools, even as the theory itself continues to evolve in new and surprising directions.Throughout, Larson trains his spotlight on the lives and careers of the scientists, explorers, and eccentrics whose collaborations and competitions have driven the theory of evolution forward. Here are portraits of Cuvier, Lamarck, Darwin, Wallace, Haeckel, Galton, Huxley, Mendel, Morgan, Fisher, Dobzhansky, Watson and Crick, W. D. Hamilton, E. O. Wilson, and many others. Celebrated as one of mankinds crowning scientific achievements and reviled as a threat to our deepest values, the theory of evolution has utterly transformed our view of life, religion, origins, and the theory itself, and remains controversial, especially in the United States (where 90% of adults do not subscribe to the full Darwinian vision). Replete with fresh material and new insights, Evolution will educate and inform while taking readers on a fascinating journey of discovery.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
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- Q: What is the main topic of 'Evolution: The Remarkable History of a Scientific Theory'? A: The book discusses the history and development of the theory of evolution, highlighting key figures and events from Charles Darwin's initial ideas to modern advancements in genetics.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Edward J. Larson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning science historian.
- Q: What kind of insights can I expect from this book? A: Readers can expect fresh material and new insights into the scientific, cultural, and philosophical implications of the theory of evolution.
- Q: How many pages does this book have? A: The book contains 368 pages.
- Q: What is the binding type of this edition? A: This edition is a paperback.
- Q: When was 'Evolution: The Remarkable History of a Scientific Theory' published? A: The book was published on August 8, 2006.
- Q: Is this book suitable for someone with no background in science? A: Yes, the book is written in an engaging manner and is accessible to readers without a scientific background.
- Q: Does the book address contemporary issues related to evolution? A: Yes, it discusses current debates surrounding evolution, including the controversy in education regarding 'creation science'.
- Q: What are some key figures mentioned in the book? A: Key figures include Charles Darwin, Alfred Wallace, Watson and Crick, and many others who contributed to the development of evolutionary theory.
- Q: What condition is the book in if it's labeled as 'Used Book in Good Condition'? A: It indicates that the book is pre-owned but has been well-maintained, showing minimal signs of wear.