Charles Darwin's seminal formulation of the theory of Evolution On the Origin of Species
continues to be as controversial today as when it was first published. Written for a general
readership On the Origin of Species sold out on the day of its publication and has remained in
print ever since. Instantly and persistently controversial the concept of natural selection
transformed scientific analysis about all life on Earth. Before the Origin of Species
accepted thinking held that life was the static and perfect creation of God. By a single
systematic argument Darwin called this view into question. His ideas have affected public
perception of everything from religion to economics. William Bynum's introduction discusses
Darwin's life the publication and reception of the themes of On the Origin of Species and
the subsequent development of its major themes. The new edition also includes brief biographies
of some of the most important scientific thinkers leading up to and surrounding the Origin of
Species suggested further reading notes and a chronology. For more than seventy years
Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world.
With more than 1 700 titles Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works
throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide
authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and
contemporary authors as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
