Evolution In Modern Thought

Book excerpt: "Evolution in Modern Thought" is a book that explores the development and impact of the theory of evolution on modern scientific thinking. The book is a collection of essays written by leading scientists and thinkers of the time, including J. Arthur Thomson and August Weismann, with a preface by Ernst Haeckel. The book begins with an overview of the history of evolutionary thought, from the early ideas of Lamarck and Darwin to the more recent developments in the field. The authors delve into the various debates and controversies surrounding evolution, such as the role of natural selection in the process and the relationship between genetics and evolution. They also discuss the ethical and social implications of the theory, including the impact on religion and morality. Throughout the book, the authors emphasize the importance of evolution in shaping our understanding of the natural world and our place in it.