KEITH THOMSON
will present
The Young Charles Darwin
A lecture, reception, and book signing

"Keith Thomson's fresh and lively account will surely bring Darwin back into focus as an exceptional scholar, traveler, family man, and author."

Keith Thomson is Professor Emeritus of natural history at the University of Oxford, and Senior Research Fellow, at the American Philosophical Society. Previously, he was Professor of Biology and Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Science at Yale University, director of the Peabody Museum of Natural History, President of the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia, and University Distinguished Scientist-in-Residence at the New School for Social Research. He is the author of twelve books.

What sort of person was the young naturalist who developed an evolutionary idea so logical, so dangerous, that it has dominated biological science for a century and a half? How did the quiet and shy Charles Darwin produce his theory of natural selection when many before him had started down the same path but failed? This book is the first to inquire into the range of influences and ideas, the mentors and rivals, and the formal and informal education that shaped Charles Darwin and prepared him for his remarkable career of scientific achievement.

Friday, April 3, 2009
Benjamin Franklin Hall
427 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia
Reception: 5:30 p.m., Program: 6:00 p.m.

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RSVP: sduffy@amphilsoc.org, or call Reception Desk (215) 440-3400