Darwin's Theory of Evolution: Did Man Really Evolve from Apes?

Charles Darwin’s theories on evolution upended the scientific community in the middle of the 19th century. He proposed that small changes over billions of years created the species we have today. Darwin felt that it was a “survival of the fittest�. Species that could adapt to their changing environment most effectively would survive, while the weaker genetic lines of species died off.

Did you learn Darwin’s theories in high school science class? Many Americans have been taught Darwinian theories in the public school system. It is commonly taught in most public school systems around the country; however it is has been an on-going topic of debate.

The main critics of Darwin’s theory of evolution are the supporters of creationism. These supporters argue that a divine entity played a role in human development and not strictly science. The debate has fluctuated in intensity with the Scopes trial in the earlier part of the 20th century to the present surge in the debate.

This debate affects a majority of the American public as it is taught in the public school system. Therefore, it is a good idea to understand the facets of Darwinism. LearnOutLoud.com offers several audio books on the subject. Listen to The Theory of Evolution by Edward J. Larson to build a solid base of Darwinian knowledge. This audio learning resource is a series of lectures that follow the history and effects of Darwin’s theory of evolution. It is a comprehensive audio resource that should be at the heart of your audio library.

Why not listen to Charles Darwin himself? Check out The Voyage of the Beagle by Charles Darwin. It is a journal account of his travels around the world. Experience his observations and conclusions on the origin of different species. Also listen to Evolution & Extinction by Stephen Jay Gould. In this audio book, Stephen Jay Gould comments on his observations and studies regarding evolution, natural selection, and much more.

Want to learn both sides of the Darwin issue? Absorb the information and viewpoints of those that oppose Darwinism. Listen to Darwin on Trial by Phillip E. Johnson and Evolution and Its Discontents by Chandak Sengoopta. These audio resources question the validity of Darwin’s theories and present opposing views and theories.

Another great resource to check out is the Teaching Company course Biology: The Science of Life. Taught by Duke University Professor Stephen Nowicki, this course goes into depth into many of the issues surrounding biology and evolution. Darwin's "Origin of the Species" is discussed in great detail.

Evolution vs. Creationism is a serious, scientific issue. Why not add a little fun into the mix by listening to The Darwin Awards: Evolution in Action by Wendy Northcutt. This hilarious audio book details how natural selection didn’t quite remove all the unintelligent human species that have no common sense.

Did man really evolve from apes? The next time this Darwinian debate shows its face in the news or at school, you can intelligently add to the discussion. Feel confident voicing your opinions on the matter after you have listened to these audio resources.