Evolution: The Triumph of an Idea - Softcover

Zimmer, Carl

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0060958502 ISBN 13: 9780060958503

Publisher: Perennial, 2002

Synopsis

The original companion volume to the PBS series chronicles the theory of evolution and its implications, from Darwin's Origin of the Species to the Human Genome Project and beyond. Reprint.

About this title

Review:

While there are countless books on evolution, there are few that have quite the combination of interest for the general reader provided by American science writer Carl Zimmer's Evolution. From the historical genesis of Darwin's idea, born and bred aboard the Beagle and the subsequent furore after its publication in 1859, Zimmer brings us right up to date with an overview of the status of the Darwin/Wallace theory today. Darwin promised his readers "a grandeur in this view of life" and, as Zimmer very ably shows, life now displays far more grandeur than even Darwin appreciated. Zimmer is ideally qualified to do this as he was a senior editor at Discover magazine where he saw much of the new science developing before his eyes. He is also a well-known author of some very successful popular science books such as At the Water's Edge and more recently Parasite Rex. The bare factual bones of the science are deftly interlaced with stories of the individual scientists and their discoveries which normally are hidden from view. Zimmer takes us expertly from the origin of life and its prehistoric evolution as evidenced by fossils, through the genetic evidence and evolution of sex to the question of primate evolution and the problems this still raises for religious fundamentalists. Beautifully illustrated with photos, diagrams and artwork, and supported with an extensive further reading list and index, Evolution is part of a bigger WGBH television and educational project but can stand alone on its own considerable merits. --Douglas Palmer

Review:

"Zimmer takes us on a comprehensive tour of the history and implications of evolution that is hard to fault... Admirable." (Guardian)

"Written with crystal clarity, Zimmer uses a broad brush to sweep us through the length and breadth of evolution... We are enthusiastically brought up-to-date.... a stunning and accessible book" (Tim Birkhead in the BBC Wildlife Magazine)

About this edition

• Publisher: Perennial
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 0060958502
• ISBN 13: 9780060958503
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 384