Description
Book SynopsisThe naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin (1809â82) ranks as one of the most influential scientific thinkers of all time. In the nineteenth century his ideas about the history and diversity of life - including the evolutionary origin of humankind - contributed to major changes in the sciences, philosophy, social thought and religious belief. The Cambridge Companion to Darwin has established itself as an indispensable resource for anyone teaching or researching Darwin's theories and their historical and philosophical interpretations. Its distinguished team of contributors examines Darwin's main scientific ideas and their development; Darwin's science in the context of its times; the influence of Darwinian thought in recent philosophical, social and religious debate; and the importance of Darwinian thought for the future of naturalist philosophy. For this second edition, coverage has been expanded to include two new chapters: on Darwin, Hume and human nature, and on Darwin's theories i
Trade ReviewPraise for the first edition: '… the contributions are largely drawn from excellent writers and are very accessible. It would be hard to imagine a much more effective or authoritative Companion to Darwin.' Research News and Opportunities in Science and Theology
'This is a comprehensive guide to the man, his life and his influence on modern science. It is easy to read and should be the first port of call for anyone with an interest in Darwin.' Reference Reviews
'The essays collectively provide an excellent conspectus of the state of the industry. The essays all survey their territories in exemplary fashion, at the same time showing something of what is being done at their boundaries … if you are a would-be member of the Darwin Industry you must read this book.' Metascience
Joint review with The Cambridge Companion to the 'Origin of Species': ' … undeniably a great introduction to Darwin, his ideas and his legacies. With the wealth of historical and philosophical analyses, and the great variety of contributions covering major problems within the field, they constitute an indispensable tool for any teacher or student of Darwin and Darwinism. The general public will find a complete presentation of Darwin's thinking, while the scholarly can enjoy a number of revisionist claims sure to provoke responses, critical and otherwise.' Thierry Hoquet, The Journal of BJHS
Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction Jonathan Hodge and Gregory Radick; Part I. Darwin's Theorising: 1. The making of a philosophical naturalist Phillip R. Sloan; 2. The notebook programmes and projects of Darwin's London years Jonathan Hodge; 3. Darwin on generation, pangenesis and sexual selection Jim Endersby; 4. Darwin on mind, morals and emotions Robert J. Richards; 5. The arguments in the Origin of Species C. Kenneth Waters; Part II. Historical Contexts: 6. Is the theory of natural selection independent of its history? Gregory Radick; 7. Darwin's science and Victorian philosophy of science David L. Hull; 8. Darwin and Victorian Christianity John Hedley Brooke; 9. Darwin, social Darwinism and eugenics Diane B. Paul; 10. The place of Darwin's theories in the intellectual long run Jonathan Hodge and Gregory Radick; Part III. Current Issues: 11. From Darwin to today in evolutionary biology Jean Gayon; 12. Metaphysical and epistemological issues in modern Darwinian theory Elliott Sober; 13. Darwinian concepts in the philosophy of mind Kim Sterelny; 14. Darwinism in moral philosophy and social theory Alex Rosenberg; 15. Belief in God in a Darwinian age Michael Ruse; Part IV. Philosophical Prospects: 16. In Darwin's wake, where am I? Daniel C. Dennett; 17. Ethical expressions: why moralists scowl, frown and smile Owen Flanagan; 18. Is human nature natural? Simon Blackburn; 19. Giving Darwin his due Philip Kitcher; Guide to further reading; List of references; Index.
