New books about evolution
May 23rd 2009 04:36
Books like Jerry A. Coyne's "Why Evolution is True" and the upcoming "The Greatest Show on Earth" by Richard Dawkins shouldn't have to exist. In a rational world, there would be no need for books that directly take on the claims of creationists and "intelligent design theorists", because the evidence for evolution, at least in broad outline, would be known to most people, both for the intellectual satisfaction it brings and because it would take a central stage in our culture. Unfortunately, we live in a world where people are still profoundly misinformed about the process that gave rise to us, and as long as that continues, I'll be thankful for books that lay out the case for evolution.
These books are for people who are on the fence about whether to accept the theory. There are many people who simply aren't sure about what the case for it is, whether the "controversy" is a genuine one, and so forth. These folk can be swayed by being shown the evidence; they aren't extremists by any means but have perhaps never taken the time to delve into the issue or maybe have only a vague acquaintance with the theory but aren't sure whether it's as strong as scientists claim it is. Of course, there are people who can't be swayed by evidence, because their reasons for rejecting evolution have nothing at all to do with evidence in the first place. Those people won't have their minds changed by these books. However, if you know someone who is on the fence, or if you yourself aren't sure about the veracity of evolution but feel you could be swayed if shown solid examples of the sorts of things that together clearly demonstrate it, then I implore you to read Coyne's book, because believe me, it's worth it. Dawkins' book is coming out in September of this year, and it can be pre-ordered from his website. It should also make for another sledge hammer of a read, with the wit and elegance that Dawkins is so renowned for.
Coyne provides an eloquently written account of the evidence, jam-packed with examples that simply make no sense except through evolution. Drawing from cases from disparate fields like biogeography, the fossil record, genetics, and embryology, Coyne lays out the case for "common descent with modification" (Darwin's phrase). Read this book, and I guarantee - guarantee - that if you're currently on the fence but are the sort of person who can rub two neurons together, you'll come out accepting evolution, and not only will you have a clearer understanding of the types of evidence that show it to be the best available explanation for the diversity and complexity of life, but you will see that this view is nothing to fear but something to rejoice in for its sheer fascination. It really is that great.
If you already accept evolution, as I do, you'll still find much to like about the book. Apart from being an entertaining read, it also provides plenty of examples that you might not have known about, and will only increase your appreciation for modern science and the wonders of nature. Here's an idea: pick out you favourite chapter, and write a summary of it on your blog or website. Help get the word out on this book, people.
These books are for people who are on the fence about whether to accept the theory. There are many people who simply aren't sure about what the case for it is, whether the "controversy" is a genuine one, and so forth. These folk can be swayed by being shown the evidence; they aren't extremists by any means but have perhaps never taken the time to delve into the issue or maybe have only a vague acquaintance with the theory but aren't sure whether it's as strong as scientists claim it is. Of course, there are people who can't be swayed by evidence, because their reasons for rejecting evolution have nothing at all to do with evidence in the first place. Those people won't have their minds changed by these books. However, if you know someone who is on the fence, or if you yourself aren't sure about the veracity of evolution but feel you could be swayed if shown solid examples of the sorts of things that together clearly demonstrate it, then I implore you to read Coyne's book, because believe me, it's worth it. Dawkins' book is coming out in September of this year, and it can be pre-ordered from his website. It should also make for another sledge hammer of a read, with the wit and elegance that Dawkins is so renowned for.
Coyne provides an eloquently written account of the evidence, jam-packed with examples that simply make no sense except through evolution. Drawing from cases from disparate fields like biogeography, the fossil record, genetics, and embryology, Coyne lays out the case for "common descent with modification" (Darwin's phrase). Read this book, and I guarantee - guarantee - that if you're currently on the fence but are the sort of person who can rub two neurons together, you'll come out accepting evolution, and not only will you have a clearer understanding of the types of evidence that show it to be the best available explanation for the diversity and complexity of life, but you will see that this view is nothing to fear but something to rejoice in for its sheer fascination. It really is that great.
If you already accept evolution, as I do, you'll still find much to like about the book. Apart from being an entertaining read, it also provides plenty of examples that you might not have known about, and will only increase your appreciation for modern science and the wonders of nature. Here's an idea: pick out you favourite chapter, and write a summary of it on your blog or website. Help get the word out on this book, people.
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