Origins and Species: A Study of the Historical Sources of Darwinism and the Contexts of Some Other Accounts of Organic Diversity from Plato and Aristotle On

Origins and Species, published in 1991, explores the historical origins of Darwinism by examining the explanatory problem and contrasting it with other interpretations of organic diversity. It examines Charles Darwin's and Alfred Russell Wallace's theories and raises questions about the context of Darwinism and the understanding of species by Plato and Aristotle.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 822 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Origins and Species, originally published in 1991, is a comprehensive exploration of the historical roots of Darwinism. This profound work delves into the core explanatory problem that gave rise to Darwinian theory, while also engaging in a comparative analysis with two other interpretative traditions in the realm of organic diversity. The book takes a meticulous and detailed look at the theories of both Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace, shedding light on their perspectives on plant and animal species. Furthermore, it raises thought-provoking questions about the contextual framework of Darwinism and its relationship to the understanding of species as articulated by Plato and Aristotle.

In the opening chapter, the author sets the stage for the exploration by providing a historical backdrop that contextualizes the emergence of Darwinism. The author traces the intellectual developments leading up to Darwin's groundbreaking work, highlighting the contributions of key figures such as Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, Charles Lyell, and Gregor Mendel. These individuals laid the foundation for the scientific understanding of evolution, paving the way for Darwin's revolutionary theory.

Chapter 2 delves into the explanatory problem that Darwinian theory sought to address. The author explains the challenges faced by previous theories of organic evolution, such as the Lamarckian inheritance of acquired characteristics and the gradualism proposed by Charles Lyell. Darwin's theory, on the other hand, offered a revolutionary explanation for the diversity of life by proposing that species are the result of natural selection acting on genetic variation.

Chapter 3 explores the contrasting perspectives of Darwinian theory with two other traditions in the interpretation of organic diversity. The author compares Darwinism with the ideas of Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, who believed that species could evolve through the accumulation of acquired characteristics. The author also contrasts Darwinism with the theories of August Weismann, who argued for a strict division between germline and somatic cells and the immutability of the germplasm.

Chapter 4 delves into the theories of Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace, presenting their respective contributions to the understanding of species. The author discusses Darwin's observations of natural selection on the Galapagos Islands, his development of the theory of natural selection, and his explanation of the mechanisms of inheritance. The author also examines Wallace's independent discovery of natural selection and his contributions to the field of evolutionary biology.

Chapter 5 examines the context of Darwinism and its relationship to the understanding of species as articulated by Plato and Aristotle. The author discusses the philosophical underpinnings of Darwin's theory, including his belief in the interconnectedness of all life and his understanding of the process of natural selection. The author also explores the differences between Darwin's theory and the ideas of Plato and Aristotle, highlighting the contrasting perspectives on the origin and nature of species.

Chapter 6 concludes the book by summarizing the key findings and implications of Origins and Species. The author emphasizes the significance of Darwinian theory in shaping our understanding of the natural world and the diversity of life. The author also discusses the ongoing debate and discussion surrounding Darwinism, including the challenges and controversies associated with it.

In conclusion, Origins and Species is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the historical origins of Darwinism. Through its comparative analysis with other interpretative traditions and its detailed examination of the theories of Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace, the book offers a profound understanding of the explanatory problem that gave rise to Darwinian theory and the diverse perspectives on organic diversity. This work is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in the study of evolution and the nature of species.

Weight: 1210g
Dimension: 233 x 158 x 49 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138325869