Online Seminar Series

The Descent of Man by Charles Darwin
Preface, Introduction, and Chapter Three

Saturday, July 8, 2023

In 1871 Charles Darwin published The Descent of Man, which applies evolutionary theory to human evolution, and details his theory of sexual selection, a form of biological adaptation distinct from, yet interconnected with, natural selection. The reception was mixed, with some concerned that “this book would unsettle our half educated classes and people will begin doing as they pleased, breaking laws and customs…” The text discusses many issues, including evolutionary psychology, evolutionary ethics, and the relevance of the evolutionary theory to society. We invite you to join us as we discuss this entire text, with readings about one month apart.

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July 8 Reading:

The Descent of Man by Darwin – Chapter Three – Comparison of the Mental Powers of Man and the Lower Animals – pages 85-119

Penguin Classics Reprint Edition
(June 2004) – ISBN 978-0140436310

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Schedule:

12:00-2:00PM PDT

Tutor: 

Andy Gilman

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Location: 

Online. Register to receive the link.