On Thursday, February 12th, we’re marking the 200th birthday of Charles Darwin and the 150th anniversary of the publication of his paradigm-shifting book, On the Origin of Species. We’ll mark the occasion from 2-4 pm with cake and conversation. At 2:30 Alan Gishlick, Professor of Geology, will give a talk about Darwin and his contribution to science. He has also collected a number of rare 19th century works relating to Darwin that are on exhibit on the main floor. Thanks, Dr. Gishlick!
In addition to the books and magazines on display in the library – all of which can be checked out – the web has lots of interesting material on Darwin and his role in science, society, history, and contemporary culture. Here’s a sampling.
All Things Darwin
Darwin 200: A Nature News Special
This premier science journal provides a selection of articles, opinions, reflections on Darwin in the arts, and resources.
Darwin 200
A British organization providing information and events around the 200th anniversary of Darwin’s birth.
Happy Birthday, Charles Darwin (Scientific American – a special issue of the magazine devoted to Darwin)
Darwin’s life and work
The Complete Works of Charles Darwin Online (Cambridge University)
The Darwin Digital Library (American Museum of Natural History)
Darwin (American Museum of Natural History – the website of a 2005-2006 exhibit on his life, his work, and evolution today)
On Darwin’s ‘On the Origin of Species’ (New York Times)
Darwin today
AAAS Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion (American Association for the Advancement of Science)
Discovery Institute (the Website of an organization promoting the theory of Intelligent Design along with other political and social ideas; they sponsor a website to promote debate in opposition to evolution on Darwin’s birthday)
Evolution Controversy (a summary of constitutional law issues around teaching evolution; part of a website on Exploring Constitutional Law)
Intelligent Designs on Evolution (American Radio Works)
On Darwin’s 200th Birthday, Americans Still Divided About Evolution (Pew Research Center)
Taking Issue: Evolution and Religion (NPR)
And now for something a little silly . . .
Darwin Awards (rather tasteless collection of stories about stupid behavior)
“Evolutionists Flock to Darwin-Shaped Wall Stain” (The Onion)