Lamarck's evolution : two centuries of genius and jealousy
Before Charles Darwin, Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck created the first theory of evolution, an idea so powerful it promised to become the great unifying force of science. But for two hundred years Lamarck's grand idea polarised the scientific establishment and became a byword for discredited belief, until, on the eve of his bicentenary, science finally caught up and proved him right. This is the story of Lamarck's own travails in treacherous times and of the Australian scientist, Dr Ted Steele, who, almost two centuries later, would decode the evidence and put Lamarck back on the world stage. It is a roller-coaster ride of intelligence, stubborn vision, belief and despair that begins with a new ending and ends with a new beginning. It is a tale of mavericks, knaves and heroes, of brilliant men and the triumph of truth
Print Book, English, 2008
Pier 9, Millers Point, N.S.W., 2008