New Books in the History of Science
Peter J. Bowler, "Evolution for the People: Shaping Popular Ideas from Darwin to the Present" (Cambridge UP, 2024)
Feb 9, 2025
Peter J. Bowler, Professor Emeritus of the History of Science at Queen's University Belfast, delves into the captivating journey of Darwin's ideas and their impact on public perception. He discusses how popular science reshaped the understanding of evolution, from linear models to complex trees. Controversies around Darwin's 'The Descent of Man' and the misuse of his theories in eugenics reveal the darker side of scientific interpretation. Bowler also connects cultural changes with evolving evolutionary theories, offering a compelling overview of the interplay between science and society.
50:47
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Quick takeaways
- Peter Bowler highlights the transformation of public understanding of evolution through popular science from the 1860s to today.
- The podcast discusses how Social Darwinism diverged from Darwin’s original theories, leading to controversial historical outcomes and ethical dilemmas.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Popular Science and Darwinian Evolution
A new exploration of the Darwinian Revolution reveals how popular science influenced public understanding of evolution. The approach focuses on how key ideas and debates about evolution were disseminated through accessible formats such as books, newspapers, and museums. This historical perspective emphasizes that the perception of evolution was shaped by non-scientific audiences, providing them with a glimpse into the prevailing thoughts of the time. By linking popular science with Darwin's theories, this analysis offers insights into how ordinary readers interpreted evolutionary concepts beyond the confines of academic discussions.
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