The Panda's Thumb: More Reflections in Natural History
by Stephen Jay Gould
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Book Summary Information
Author: Stephen Jay GouldEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 1992-08
ISBN: 0393308197
Number of pages: 344
Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
Book Reviews of The Panda's Thumb: More Reflections in Natural History
Book Review: In Memorium
Summary: 5 Stars
This is the book that reminds us why Stephen Jay Gould was the Great One. He was perhaps the greatest naturalist of his generation, as measured by being able to get across complex scientific ideas for the common man in an interesting manner. Additionally, he was a great scientist in his own right. The world is a sorrier place to lose him.
Gould's essays are far-ranging, but center around his view of life and evolution- through punctuated equilibrium. Using analogy (allowed in natural history essays) and his extensive research experience, he looks at how paradaigms shift, and why they should. He describes the evidence and logic behind a punctuated model as opposed to gradualism. And along the way lets us learn some fascinating new worlds in human and animal life.
At times I don't agree with his strong dislike of religion. At times his writing is dated- to be expected in a book now 25 years old. (He talks with great excitement about how we can now determine the code of RNA.) But his writing is always interesting, always thought-provoking and challenging, always novel. He has a new way of seeing things, even after a quarter century. He forces the reader to confront their preconceptions and shift their paradaigms. You learn, yes, but with great joy, and a spice of humor.
Summary of The Panda's Thumb: More Reflections in Natural History
With sales of well over one million copies in North America alone, the commercial success of Gould's books now matches their critical acclaim. Reissued in a larger format, with a handsome new cover, The Panda's Thumb will introduce a new generation of readers to this unique writer, who has taken the art of the scientific essay to new heights. Illustrations.General Books
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