[asa] Monkey Trials and Gorilla Sermons

I am back on lthe list after a hiatus of several weeks. What brought me back
is the discussion on Peter Bowler's latest book, which I found in the
Archives. Look for my review of "Monkey Trials and Gorilla Sermons" in a
forthcoming issue of PSCF. I agree with the sentiment that Bowler is a fine
scholar and reliable source for the history of the idea of evolution.
without going into the detail provided in my review I gave this study a
thumbs up. The historical sketch that focuses on the response of liberal
Christianity to evolution neatly ties it together with the history of the
development of biological theory and philosophical notions about evolution.
I learned a great deal from the book. It is remarkable for its clarity of
exposition and Bowler's ability to pack a lot of information and
interpretations in a relatively slim volume.

While I do not say so in my review I share Steve's concern about the way
that Bowler uses the term "evolutionism" and wish he had confined it
strictly to its philosophical and ideological meanings. That aside this
book is a first-rate historical study.

Bob

Robert J. Schneider
187 Sierra Vista
Boone, NC, 28607
828-264-4071
"Science and Faith: perspectives on Christianity and science:
http://community.berea.edu/scienceandfaith/.
"A Catechism of Creation: An Episcopal Understanding":
www.episcopalchurch.org/science/.

When asked what he would do if he knew Christ would return tomorrow, Martin
Luther is said to have replied, "I would plant a tree."

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Received on Sun Jan 6 21:51:56 2008