Books

Fourth edition of "the most important biological book ever written" (Freeman), one of 1,500 copies, the text extensively altered from previous editions, "representing the second largest increase in the Origin". It is in the fourth edition that the date of the Origin's initial publication, as given on the verso of the half-title, is corrected from 1 October to 24 November 1859. Octavo. Original green pebble-grain cloth, spine lettered and decorated in gilt, covers blocked in blind (Freeman's variant c, no priority), dark green endpapers, Edmond & Remnants binder's ticket on rear pastedown. Folding diagram facing p. 130. 32 pp. publisher's advertisements dated April 1867 at rear. Contemporary ownership signature of Samuel Oldham Lees (likely the landowner, 1832-1879) on half-title, later bookplate on front pastedown (A. Oldham Lees of Gowanlea, Strathspey). Spine ends and corners bumped, with a little judicious restoration at head, extremities rubbed, cloth clean, a few leaves creased from reading, book block cracked at pp. 432-3 but remaining firm and square. A very good copy. Freeman 385.

"On the Origin of Species" is a pivotal scientific work by Charles Darwin, published in 1859. In this seminal book, Darwin proposed the theory of evolution through natural selection, reshaping humanity's understanding of the natural world. He presented a comprehensive argument supported by extensive observations and evidence from various fields, discussing the gradual modification of species over time. Darwin's central idea was that all species of organisms evolved from common ancestors and that the mechanism driving this evolution was natural selection. He argued that within populations, organisms exhibit variations, and those better adapted to their environment have a higher chance of surviving and passing on their advantageous traits to future generations. Over successive generations, these advantageous traits accumulate, leading to the divergence of species and the formation of new ones. Darwin drew upon diverse scientific disciplines, including geology, paleontology, embryology, and anatomy, to support his theory. He detailed examples from nature, such as the diversity of finches in the Galápagos Islands and artificial selection in domesticated animals, to illustrate his points. The book triggered widespread debate, challenging prevailing religious and scientific beliefs about the origin and diversity of life. While controversial at the time, "On the Origin of Species" laid the groundwork for modern evolutionary biology. Its profound impact continues to shape scientific inquiry, influencing fields ranging from genetics to ecology and sparking ongoing discussions about life's interconnectedness and the processes that drive biological diversity.