Progress, Positivism, and Scientific Revolution: The Synthesis of Darwin's Theory of Evolution

Abstract

Bridging the rift between the sciences and the humanities is important for fostering creativity in all fields of study. Many scientific theories, especially those producing the most profound impact on our understanding of the world, are a continuity of sociological phenomena and of history. This project uses Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution as an illustration of the intrinsic ties between science and humanities. Darwin's theory, which has its basis in scientific observation, would ignite intense philosophical and theological debate, upending creationist beliefs and paving the way for an anti-teleological view of nature. When Darwin was formulating his theory of evolution, the industrial revolution provided a visceral model for the archetypal survival of the fittest. Philosophical positivism and English analytical philosophy exalted rational, scientific observation as the pinnacle of "truth" while romantic poets sought answers to philosophical and aesthetic discourses in the natural world.My Latham Science Engagement Initiative project sought to engage humanities majors with concepts in evolutionary biology through distribution of a brochure, entitled “Progress, Positivism, and Scientific Revolution: The Synthesis of Darwin’s Theory of Evolution,” during general education and humanities classes on campus. My intention was to showcase Darwin’s theory of evolution as a synthesis of its historical context, scientific predecessors, and aesthetic milieu. I also informed the classes about a flagship science event — Iowa City Darwin Day — in hopes of increasing non-science major attendees.