The theory of natural selection is one of the most elegantly simple, yet most profound, ideas ever conceived. With it, Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace found a mechanism that could explain the fact of evolution. For from this simple idea, springs forth an explanation for all of the amazing diversity of life that we see on the planet Earth. Why is natural selection such a profound idea? And why is it so dangerous that many in our society find it difficult to accept? In this course, we will examine the science and history behind the theory of natural selection and its broader implications. We will particularly examine the fossil evidence (i.e., paleontology) for (and against) natural selection as the causative agent for evolution.

Classes will consist of lectures and guided discussions of the science and history of the theory of natural selection. We will explore topics concerning natural selection through the primary scientific literature (i.e., original book and journal articles), starting with the work of Darwin and Wallace. The point of view of the course will be from paleontology (i.e., how the fossil record informs us concerning issues relating to evolution and natural selection).

In this course, you will be asked to complete three reports. These reports will be along the lines of essays, where you will conceptualize and integrate the topics discussed in class. All observations, inferences, and positions presented in these reports should be supported by references drawn from the primary literature.

Readings and sources for the course include Charles Darwin, On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection; Daniel Dennett, Darwin’s Dangerous Idea; Ernst Mayr, What Evolution Is; and selected articles from the primary scientific literature.

Class participation is 25%.

First research report is 20%.

Second research report is 25%.

Third research report is 30%.