Criticisms on "The Origin of Species" / From 'The Natural History Review', 1864

Name: Criticisms on "The Origin of Species" / From 'The Natural History Review', 1864
Author: Thomas Henry Huxley

By Thomas Henry Huxley

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Philosophy & Ethics Science - Biology

About This Book

An essay surveys recent continental commentaries on Darwin's theory, summarizing positions of several philologists and naturalists and focusing on two elaborate critiques. It outlines Darwin's account of continual variation and selection, presents the chief objections—especially the claim that organs imply purposeful construction—and treats an alternative labeled heterogeneous generation. The author contrasts the teleological explanation with natural selection conceived as a trial-and-error process that yields fit adaptations, evaluates the critics' destructive and constructive points, and defends the explanatory power of selection without recourse to design.

About the Author

Thomas Henry Huxley

Thomas Henry Huxley (1825-1895) was an English biologist and a prominent advocate of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Often referred to as 'Darwin's Bulldog' for his defense of evolutionary science, Huxley made significant contributions to the fields of zoology and paleontology. His works, such as "A Critical Examination of the Position of Mr. Darwin's Work" and "American Addresses, with a Lecture on the Study of Biology," reflect his commitment to scientific inquiry and education. Huxley's writings often explored the relationship between science and religion, and he was instrumental in promoting the importance of scientific literacy in society.