The Great Courses: History of Science

11 books in series
4.5 out of 5 stars 265 ratings

The Theory of Evolution: A History of Controversy Publisher's Summary

Charles Darwin's theory of organic evolution - the idea that life on earth is the product of purely natural causes, not the hand of God - set off shock waves that continue to reverberate through Western society, and especially the United States. What makes evolution such a profoundly provocative concept, so convincing to most scientists, yet so socially and politically divisive? These 12 eye-opening lectures are an examination of the varied elements that so often make this science the object of strong sentiments and heated debate.

Professor Larson leads you through the "evolution" of evolution, with an eye toward enhancing your understanding of the development of the theory itself and the roots of the controversies that surround it. Here, you'll explore pre-Darwinian theories of the origins of life, from Genesis and the ancient Greeks to such 18th- and 19th-century scientists as Georges Cuvier. You'll follow the life and work of Charles Darwin, and the impact of his 1859 masterpiece, On the Origin of Species (the first printing of Origin of Species sold out on the first day).

You'll examine the history of evolutionary science after Darwin-including the "rediscovery" of Gregor Mendel's work on genetic variation and the discovery of Piltdown Man, a fake evolutionary "missing link," in 1912. And you'll trace the history of religious objections to evolution, from those of Darwin's own time to contemporary efforts to teach creation science in American schools. Richly detailed yet accessible to any curious mind, these lectures offer an invaluable perspective on the volatile history of what is arguably the single most significant idea of modern times.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2002 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2002 The Great Courses
Show More Show Less

See a series you like?

Book one is on us
After 30 days, Audible is $16.45/mo. Cancel anytime.
Product list
  • Non-member price: $20.83 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $20.83 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $48.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $38.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $38.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $49.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $49.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $40.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $40.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $59.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $59.99 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $50.00 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $50.00 or 1 Credit

  • Non-member price: $40.99 or 1 Credit

    Sale price: $40.99 or 1 Credit

There’s a series for
everyone on Audible.

From fascinating sci-fi and fantasy to binge-worthy thrillers,
find your next book series to love.

Explore series