On the Origin of Species

On the Origin of Species has recently celebrated the 150th anniversary of its publication, so what better time to read this ground breaking work of natural science? It laid the foundation for the field of evolutionary biology, which hinges on the theory that populations evolve over the course of generations through a process of natural selection. 150 years later this is still a contentious issue - it divides people who accept Darwin's theories as facts and those who think he's a fraud. But how many of those who accept the ideas of evolution and natural selection can actually argue its case? Even if you're not looking for ammo to combat your fundamentalist grandmother, this is a must read for anyone interested in science. It can be dry in parts, but on the whole Darwin wrote clearly and eloquently for a scientist. Enjoy one of the greatest "aha!" moments in science with Darwin's revolutionary book.