On the Origin of Species: A Facsimile of the First Edition

Front Cover
Harvard University Press, 1964 - History - 502 pages

It is now generally recognized that the publication of Darwin's Origin of Species in 1859 not only decisively altered the basic concepts of biological theory but had a profound and lasting influence on social, philosophic, and religious thought. This work is rightly regarded as one of the most important books ever printed.

The first edition had a freshness and uncompromising directness that were considerably weakened in subsequent editions. Nearly all reprints were based on the greatly modified sixth edition (1872), and the only modern reprint changes pagination, making references to the original very difficult. Clearly, there has been a need for a facsimile reprint. Professor Mayr's introduction has a threefold purpose: to list passages in the first edition that Darwin altered in later editions; to point out instances in which Darwin was clearly pioneering; and to call attention to neglected passages that show Darwin as a much deeper thinker than has been recognized. No one can fail to be impressed by the originality of Darwin's treatment and by the intellectual challenge his work presents even to the modern reader.

 

Contents

INTRODUCTION Page
1
VARIATION UNDER DOMESTICATION
7
CHAPTER II
44
STRUGGLE FOR EXISTENCE
60
CHAPTER IV
80
CHAPTER V
131
DIFFICULTIES ON THEORY
171
CHAPTER VII
207
CHAPTER VIII
245
CHAPTER X
312
CHAPTER XI
346
CHAPTER XIII
411
CHAPTER XIV
459
BIBLIOGRAPHY 491
491
SUBJECT INDEX 497
497
Copyright

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About the author (1964)

Ernst Mayr was Alexander Agassiz Professor of Zoology, Emeritus, at Harvard University. He was the recipient of numerous honorary degrees and awards, including the Crafoord Prize for Biology, the National Medal of Science, the Balzan Prize, and the Japan Prize.

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