Charles Darwin’s theories on human evolution upended the
scientific community in the middle of the 19th century. He
theorized that humans were derived from apes. He proposed that
small genetic mutations over millions of years created the human
species we have today. Darwin felt that it was a “survival of
the fittest”. Species that could adapt to their changing
environment most effectively would survive, while the weaker
genetic lines of species died off.
Did you learn Darwin’s theories in high school science class?
Many Americans have been taught Darwinian theories in the public
school system. It is commonly taught in most public school
systems around the country; however it is has been an on-going
topic of debate.
The main critics of Darwin’s theory of evolution are the
supporters of creationism. These supporters argue that a divine
entity played a role in human development and not strictly
science. The debate has fluctuated in intensity with the Scopes
trial in the earlier part of the 20th century to the present
surge in the debate.
This debate affects a majority of the American public as it is
taught in the public school system. Therefore, it is a good idea
to understand the facets of Darwinism. LearnOutLoud.com offers
several audio books on the subject. Listen to The Theory of
Evolution by Edward J. Larson to build a solid base of Darwinian
knowledge. This audio learning resource is a series of lectures
that follow the history and effects of Darwin’s theory of
evolution. It is a comprehensive audio resource that should be
at the heart of your audio library.
Why not listen to Charles Darwin himself? Check out The Voyage
of the Beagle by Charles Darwin. It is a journal account of his
travels around the world. Experience his observations and
conclusions on the origin of different species. Also listen to
Evolution & Extinction by Stephen Jay Gould. In this audio book,
Stephen Jay Gould comments on his observations and studies
regarding evolution, natural selection, and much more.
Want to learn both sides of the Darwin issue? Absorb the
information and viewpoints of those that oppose Darwinism.
Listen to Darwin on Trial by Phillip E. Johnson and Evolution
and Its Discontents by Chandak Sengoopta. These audio resources
question the validity of Darwin’s theories and present opposing
views and theories.
Another great resource to check out is the Teaching Company
course Biology: The Science of Life. Taught by Duke University
Professor Stephen Nowicki, this course goes into depth into many
of the issues surrounding biology and evolution. Darwin's
"Origin of the Species" is discussed in great detail.
Evolution vs. Creationism is a serious, scientific issue. Why
not add a little fun into the mix by listening to The Darwin
Awards: Evolution in Action by Wendy Northcutt. This hilarious
audio book details how natural selection didn’t quite remove all
the unintelligent human species that have no common sense.
Did man really evolve from apes? The next time this Darwinian
debate shows its face in the news or at school, you can
intelligently add to the discussion. Feel confident voicing your
opinions on the matter after you have listened to these audio
resources.