Reviews for Evolution, order, and complexity

The average rating for Evolution, order, and complexity based on 2 reviews is 3 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2010-12-26 00:00:00 Jose Augusto Freitas Sob This book has received an unjustified bad rap by people who read it for the wrong reasons. Potential readers should know: this is not a book to read before your upcoming Galapagos cruise (there are books written for that purpose), it talks extensively about evolution and its interplay with Creationism and this is not only for hardcore Darwin fans who have visited the islands. This book reviews in detail all of the visitors to the islands, their purposes and the impact they left either on the islands or in print since the 1500's. Several threads run parallel to each other. First, the destruction carried out by every single visitor, some plundering in classic style and some collecting as many species as possible before they disappeared for good. Second, a dichotomy in which many visitors were repelled by the enchanted and barren islands, and at the same time their overabundance of fascinating animals and plants previously unknown to man. And lastly, the inspiration the islands provided to scientists interested in the origin of species and with them the dogged creationists who need more meaning than a purely material world can provide. Each expedition to the islands is narrated in relation to at least one of these threads. After reading this, I am amazed at humanity's shortsighted destructive nature and simultaneously at its tenacity in pursuit of preserving the magic these islands represent for the rest of the world. The fact that 97% of the landmass on the islands is currently a national park surrounded by an extensive marine reserve in a cash-strapped country that would open the park to greater human development in a heartbeat amazes me and restores my faith in humanity. This is excellent science writing. I highly recommend this book for readers who want to understand how humans are capable of doing the right thing against all odds.

Review # 2 was written on 2011-05-08 00:00:00 Julia Cole An inspiring read about the incredible Galapagos islands. Edward captures the various ways people through out time and place viewed those islands. Whether it was whalers, pirates or amateur scientists, these islands left an impression of its natural wonders , both cruel and beautiful. These unassuming and marvelous islands, as told by Edward, will leave an impression on their readers. An impression that hopefully will create a greater urge to protect this wild space and find a balance with the people who call those islands home.