Evolution for the People: Shaping Popular Ideas from Darwin to the Present

'Peter Bowler is today's most distinguished historian of evolutionary theory. Every time you think there can be no more to say, he guides us through the huge literature around evolutionary biology, as he produces yet another fascinating, well-written account of some hitherto-unexplored area of interest and importance. This time, in Evolution for the People, relating discussion to everyday issues of the present, Bowler sees how people like George Bernard Shaw and Julian Huxley explored the new vision of the past, particularly as found in Charles Darwin's Origin of Species. Very highly recommended.' Michael Ruse, University of Guelph 'A pacy historical panorama of evolutionary ideas that appeared in books intended for a broad non-specialist readership. Bowler is at his very best in covering three centuries of popular science, ranging from science fiction, images of apes and dinosaurs, to museum displays and radio broadcasts, and shows how Darwin's views – and the evolutionary views of many others – were perceived.' Janet Browne, Harvard University 'Focusing on popular science through an inspiring range of media over a long time, Bowler has brilliantly added an illuminating dimension to our understanding of the dynamic history of evolutionary theory. Evolution for the People is lively even as it is erudite. It is a joy to read. Highly recommended.' Constance Clark, Worcester Polytechnic Institute