Evolution and the Myth of Creationism: A Basic Guide to the Facts in the Evolution Debate

by Tim M. Berra

A Stanford University Press classic.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Evolution, Religion, Anthropology

225 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1990

Reviews

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent explanation of one of the most important ideas of history-evolution. From 1990, so some things are outdated, but, overall, a very useful book to use in the continuing debate between science and creationism. At the end, Berra, a zoologist, expresses optimism that the ideas of science will win out. I'm not so sure about this. We have seen the development of a citizenry easily misled and deceived by political and corporate leaders, particularly our current president. It is also apparent that many Americans are totally ignorant about science and don't care...

[Pearl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this book because I'm a science major, and evolution is something that intrigues everyone. This book is an easy read for anyone, and may cause some discomfort in your religion. For me, I enjoyed reading this book because I understand evolution better and gives me more confidence to my logical side. This books has great points throughout. Just like cars or anything else, decent with modification occurs even in your own religion!! Check out "Atheist Tapes" by the BBC sometime for some great discussions and thought-provoking questions/answers from credible people (it's on Netflix too).

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm read the first 4 chapters. I had to return it since it was a library book. But I know I want to purchase this book. It is old, but very easy to read. If you have a 12 year old, they would be able to read it just fine.

[J.E. · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was the most annoying I've ever read. In the introduction the writer preaches the genius of evolution and stupidity of creation. He tells how he is going to prove evolution true and show creation is pure story telling. however, the book is then solely an explanation of the evolution theory. He gives only 10 or so pages to truly giving any arguments to the debate. Of the few points that he has, the ones that could be considered stronger were more philosophical than scientific. There were ways I saw his arguments actually having more evidence of creation than evolution, but I'm not going to get into that.

Simply put, this book has nothing to add to the creation/evolution debate, and the few points discussed are a sermon not a scientific evaluation.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this was a book that I was supposed to read in college, but didn't until now. I picked it up because I was hoping to read a book that listed the creation argument and the evolution argument side by side. This was not the format of this book. It was the whole scientific explanation of evolution and every so often it had a sentence about what creationists say. There was one chapter that went into more details, but more from a legal and education point of view. I really wanted to read a full argument of creationism just to see what some people think (even though I believe in evolution). I know people who believe in creation and I wanted more insight into their views.

[Clark Lyons · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book won't change anyone's point of view, but it does adress the important arguements and facts that you should know before debating.

[Toni · Rating 1 out of 5]

There was very little "evidence" supported in this text on either "side" of the "debate". As for an unbiased (scientific, open-minded) author? Look elsewhere.

[JoB · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is a concise introduction to the scientific evidence for biological evolution. the author also does a thorough job of expounding on the ways in which notions of creation by a divine or intelligent being, particularly those put forward by fundamentalist christians in USA, lack any scientific rigor. the author cites a few court cases and other documents which demonstrate that these creationists indeed know that their ideas are unscientific, but they do not care.

A bit dated, given the wealth of evidence and data that has been uncovered in the last 35 years, but the general science is still the same and remains the best possible explanation for the diversity of life we see on Earth.

[Lage von Dissen · Rating 3 out of 5]

For a layman's resource in the infamous Evolution vs. Creationism debate, look no further. The book gives a basic overview of the common arguments given by anti-evolution Creationists, and their trivial refutation. While this is a good place to start, I recommend reading more in-depth resources (e.g. Biology and Physics texts) that better address some of the fundamental issues in the debate. The most interesting thing about this debate, is that Creationism doesn't negate evolution (as they are entirely compatible positions), although the book addresses only those arguments given by anti-evolution Creationists (the most unintelligible individuals that take part in these debates). You can have a universe created by some deity or supernatural force that utilized evolution as a part of the creation process, that is, evolution can be a part of the creation -- and a view that includes much more variety, complexity and beauty than an "evolution-less" explanation could ever hope to. Overall I recommend this book to those new to this topic/debate.

[Geordie · Rating 4 out of 5]

So cool to read and own and refer to and look at again and skim when you want to and glance lovingly at on your shelf and look up that one great line in and to tell your brother about and oooh I am glad this book is in my life

[Drew]

Evolution and the Myth of Creationism: A Basic Guide to the Facts in the Evolution Debate by Tim Berra (1990)