Darwinian Theory in Historical Context and Its Defense by B.D. Walsh: What is Past is Prologue

American Entomologist • Volume 52, Number 1 Notwithstanding the current controversy in the United States surrounding the teaching of evolution, it is indeed diffi cult today to comprehend the upheaval that the Origin of Species wreaked among Darwin’s contemporaries. Darwin’s letter in 1844 to the botanist J. D. Hooker affords some appreciation, in that Darwin admitted that divulging his evolutionary views felt tantamount to “confessing a murder” (Darwin 1903). But why should it have been so? In this article, I explore that question, focusing on the reception of Darwinian theory in the 19th century. I also advance the argument that striking parallels exist between natural theology of the 19th century and “intelligent design” today, or, to put it more broadly, “What is past is prologue.” We stand to gain from a retrospective of the diffi culties faced by evolutionary theory in Darwin’s time. To provide a historical framework, I begin with an overview of Darwin’s experiences and the changes that his thinking underwent during the years preceding publication of the Origin. Next, I discuss religious beliefs prevalent among Darwin’s contemporaries, including those of prominent entomologists. Those views are contrasted with the writings of the 19th century entomologist B. D. Walsh, a vociferous defender of Darwinian theory. I also discuss current issues surrounding the teaching of evolution vs. intelligent design, provide some thoughts on scientifi c vs. religious endeavor, and close with suggested approaches toward public acceptance and understanding of Darwinian theory.