Nearly 200 years after his birth in 1809, and nearly 150 years after the publication of his groundbreaking book The Origin of Species, Charles Darwin remains a controversial figure in science and society. But how much does today’s student really know about Darwin and his times? This A-to-Z reference work provides users with an understanding of the intellectual, social, and material world in which Darwin lived. This culture profoundly influenced Darwin’s work in biology and geology, in general, and his theory of natural selection, in particular. Understanding this period and Darwin’s life and times is essential for understanding the development of evolution and biology. In essence, this encyclopedia will cover everything that made Darwin one of the most influential figures of the last 150 years.

All Things Darwin covers all the important ideas, voyages, people, and things that influenced the life and work of Charles Darwin and, through him, the subsequent history of science and society. In addition, the volume includes entries on people and ideas that Darwin’s work influenced.