Charles Darwin's theories on natural selection rank with those of Copernicus and Newton for their iconic stature in science. In The Darwinian Revolution, explore the remarkable story of Darwin's ideas, how scientists and religious leaders reacted to them, and the resulting sea change in human thought. In these 24 absorbing lectures taught by award-winning Professor Frederick Gregory, learn how a strikingly original scientific concept can break the boundaries of its discipline and influence society at large—in religion, politics, philosophy, and other spheres. By the conclusion, you'll realize the truly astounding implications of this provocative theory on all aspects of human life.
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Explore the history of competing conceptions of scientific knowledge over issues such as evolution from the onset of the Scientific Revolution in the 1600s to the present.
Taught by Professor Scott Solomon of Rice University, this course follows the revolution in biology and genetics sparked by Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. In Darwin’s day, there were many gaps and uncertainties in his theory—most of which were conclusively solved by his successors. Throughout, Dr. Solomon contrasts what Darwin knew with our tremendous increase in knowledge today.
What makes evolution such a profoundly provocative concept, so convincing to most scientists, yet so socially and politically divisive? The Theory of Evolution: A History of Controversy is an examination of the varied elements that so often make this science the object of strong sentiments and heated debate. Professor Edward J. Larson leads you through the "evolution" of evolution, with an eye toward enhancing your understanding of the development of the theory itself and the roots of the controversies that surround it. In these lectures you will: explore pre-Darwinian theories on the origins of life; examine the history of evolutionary science after Darwin; trace the history of objections to evolution; and much more.
Alexander the Great. Jesus. Darwin. Churchill. These are just a few of the revolutionary individuals who have transformed our world in ways that still resonate today. 36 Revolutionary Figures of History is a unique collection of 36 lectures from our extensive course catalog—one that takes you across time and around the globe to offer piercing insights into some of history’s most transformative figures.
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