About the book
A “riveting” (The Wall Street Journal) biography of one of the most influential and controversial scientists in Western history
Acclaimed historian and biographer Paul Johnson turns his keen eye on Charles Darwin, the towering figure whose work continues to spur scientific debate.
With his publication of On the Origin of Species, Darwin forever changed our concept of the world. While Johnson praises Darwin’s extraordinary skills as a natural scientist and his monumental achievements, he does not sidestep Darwin’s tragic failures as an anthropologist. Johnson argues that by applying his theory of natural selection to humans, Darwin provided a platform for the burgeoning eugenics movement. Lay readers and academics alike will enjoy this concise and unflinching exploration of Charles Darwin, a genius whose discoveries—even the flawed ones—add significant dimension to our understanding of his mind, the era in which he lived, and his everlasting impact on our world.
Editions of Darwin
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780670025718
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780147509772
- EBook
- ISBN 9781101601150
Read an Excerpt
A “riveting” (The Wall Street Journal) biography of one of the most influential and controversial scientists in Western history
Acclaimed historian and biographer Paul Johnson turns his keen eye on Charles Darwin, the towering figure whose work continues to spur scientific debate.
With his publication of On the Origin of Species, Darwin forever changed our concept of the world. While Johnson praises Darwin’s extraordinary skills as a natural scientist and his monumental achievements, he does not sidestep Darwin’s tragic failures as an anthropologist. Johnson argues that by applying his theory of natural selection to humans, Darwin provided a platform for the burgeoning eugenics movement. Lay readers and academics alike will enjoy this concise and unflinching exploration of Charles Darwin, a genius whose discoveries—even the flawed ones—add significant dimension to our understanding of his mind, the era in which he lived, and his everlasting impact on our world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Darwin about?
A “riveting” (The Wall Street Journal) biography of one of the most influential and controversial scientists in Western history
Acclaimed historian and biographer Paul Johnson turns his keen eye on Charles Darwin, the towering figure whose work continues to spur scientific debate.
With his publication of On the Origin of Species, Darwin forever changed our concept of the world. While Johnson praises Darwin’s extraordinary skills as a natural scientist and his monumental achievements, he does not sidestep Darwin’s tragic failures as an anthropologist. Johnson argues that by applying his theory of natural selection to humans, Darwin provided a platform for the burgeoning eugenics movement. Lay readers and academics alike will enjoy this concise and unflinching exploration of Charles Darwin, a genius whose discoveries—even the flawed ones—add significant dimension to our understanding of his mind, the era in which he lived, and his everlasting impact on our world.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Darwin?
Biography, Literature and Literary studies > Biography and non-fiction prose > Biography: general > Biography: science, technology and medicine
Where can I read a sample of Darwin?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780670025718
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Darwin?
Paul Johnson
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Darwin is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780670025718) and paperback(ISBN 9780147509772) and ebook(ISBN 9781101601150)
Where can I buy Darwin online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Darwin from below