Darwinism /

Bowler (Queen's Univ., Belfast) is a well-respected historian of the theory of evolution. In this work, part of "Twayne's Studies in Intellectual and Cultural History," he uses the results of recent historical research to illuminate the differences between that which often passes for Darwinism and the actual content of the theory. He cautions, "The historical reconsideration of Darwinism does not seek to sever the link between science and social values, but rather to show that the relationship is so complex that the traditional labels attached to theories are dangerously simplistic." The uses of the concept "Social Darwinism," in particular, are shown to be often illogical extensions of the theory of evolution and natural selection. By examples drawn from the past century and a half, he shows the perils of such extensions when used to justify philosophical theories having little to do with Darwin's work or opinions. The work has a complete index and includes a short bibliographical essay that should be the starting point of anyone wishing to study Darwinism. General; undergraduate through faculty. J. L. McKnight; College of William and Mary