Controversial Aspects of Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection.
This paper will argue, through a discussion of both Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection and its social and ideological context, that Darwin's work was so controversial primarily because of the fact that it challenged conventional thinking with regard to the position of mankind in the cosmos. Although this controversy was mainly religious in origins, it will also be argued that it touched on issues of racism with respect to a presumed distinction - and the implied superiority - between the white race and the other races on the planet. 5 pgs. 11 f/c. 5b.