"Charles Darwin (1809-82) is one of the most significant natural scientists in history. His work changed the way human beings saw themselves and the world they inhabited. Darwins theory of evolution by natural selection has provided an impetus for teaching and research in biology and geology and created enduring controversies in disciplines as diverse as psychology and theology. Published to coincide with Darwins 200th birthday (12 February 1809), Tom Frame examines Darwins influence on Australian thinking. He provides useful contextual material on Darwins life and times, including his 1836 visit to Australia in HMS Beagle; the background to historic disputes and contemporary debates about Darwins motivations and methods; his scientific conclusions and their social consequences; and, outlines the various ways in which Darwins work continues to shape Australian public policy and private behaviour. 'Evolution in the Antipodes' will interest students of Australian history and specialist readers in the fields of maritime affairs, natural science and theistic religion.--'Provided by publisher Charles Darwin liked and loathed Australia. The father of evolution paid the continent a flying visit during in 1836, and was glad to put the place behind him. Yet Australia's astonishing wildlife influenced him deeply, and his revolutionary theories still resonate profoundly in Australian society. Two hundred years after Darwin's birth, at a time when evolutionary theory is facing challenges from those who believe in intelligent design, award-winning writer and Anglican bishop Tom Frame explores Darwin's life and times, and asks whether it is possible for us to believe in God and Darwin at the same time. Drawing on years of exhaustive inquiry and a unique point of view, Evolution in the Antipodes is a fascinating and thoughtful account of Charles Darwin's significant and enduring influence on Australian life. Charles Darwins profound influence on Australian thinking is explored from a variety of positions in this carefully researched analysis. Providing useful contextual material on Darwins life and times, including his 1836 visit to Australia in the HMS Beagle , the narrative examines historic disputes and contemporary debates about Darwins motivations and methods. This reference also displays his scientific conclusions and their social consequences while outlining the various ways in which Darwins work continues to shape Australian public policy and private behavior.
