Evolution's Workshop

Professor Edward Larson talks about his book Evolution’s Workshop: God and Science on the Galapagos Islands, published by Basic Books. The book is about the history and scientific significance of the Galapagos Islands. Mr. Larson talks about scientist Charles Darwin’s visit in 1835, which resulted in his theory on natural selection and evolution. Mr. Larson discusses the continuing scientific expeditions and explorers that followed from the late 1800s through the early 1900s, and their study of numerous animal specimens. He discusses specifically the lengthy study of finches by the explorers who eventually ruled out the theory of natural selection in their findings. Professor Larson concludes with the current state of the islands and its popularity for tourists and scientific studies. He takes questions at the end of the program. close