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simifilm's review
4.0
Very thorough biography of Darwin which places him and the development of his concept of evolution and natural selection in the wider political and social contexts. In 19th century England the question of the origin of species was not just one which interested scientists but which had broad social and political implications. The basic argument is that Darwin was leaning toward an evolutionary approach very early on but hesitated to publish it because of his own upbringing and social position. He was well aware whom his findings would shock and what sensibilities he would hurt.
While the book as a whole can be recommended whole-heartedly, it is probably a bit too long and tends to be repetitive. The authors repeat their central point a bit too often.
Also there is a very strong emphasis on a Malthusian understanding of Darwin, of natural selection as constant battle among species and individuals. To my understanding, this is only half the story. Time and again, Darwin points out that when he speaks of "struggle" this does often not mean actual battle, but should be understood as a metaphor, and that cooperation among animals is also of great importance.
While the book as a whole can be recommended whole-heartedly, it is probably a bit too long and tends to be repetitive. The authors repeat their central point a bit too often.
Also there is a very strong emphasis on a Malthusian understanding of Darwin, of natural selection as constant battle among species and individuals. To my understanding, this is only half the story. Time and again, Darwin points out that when he speaks of "struggle" this does often not mean actual battle, but should be understood as a metaphor, and that cooperation among animals is also of great importance.
martijnvos's review against another edition
4.0
Een zeer gedetailleerd werk over het leven van Darwin. Praktisch ieder ontmoeting, etentje, gedachte en ontdekking van Darwin staat in dit boek. Het is daarom ook erg groot. Deze combi heeft ervoor gezorgd dat ik er bijna 4 jaar over gedaan heb.
De eerste 200 pagina's zijn eventjes taai, maar daarna (rond de tijd van het schrijven van The Origin of Species en de gevolgen daarvan) leest het als een trein.
Ik zou het denk ik niet nog een keer lezen omdat het zo groot is.
De eerste 200 pagina's zijn eventjes taai, maar daarna (rond de tijd van het schrijven van The Origin of Species en de gevolgen daarvan) leest het als een trein.
Ik zou het denk ik niet nog een keer lezen omdat het zo groot is.
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