Luck, or Cunning, as the Main Means of Organic Modification

By Samuel Butler

Book Overview

A ripple of intellectual daring once disturbed the tranquil surface of Victorian England, where faith and science collided in drawing rooms and lecture halls alike. Here, in the heart of the nineteenth century, a collection of philosophical essays emerged that challenged prevailing notions of evolutionary theory, offering a spirited counterpoint to the era's most influential scientific minds. This provocative work, long absent from the shelves and now revived by Alpha Editions after decades out of print, invites readers to witness the fierce debates that shaped the very fabric of Victorian intellectual history. Within these pages, the reader is transported to a world where the boundaries between science and religion blur, and the question of natural selection becomes a battleground for reason, wit, and conviction. The essays probe the deepest assumptions of evolutionary theory literature, engaging directly with the arguments of figures such as Charles Darwin and Thomas Huxley. Each chapter is steeped in the intellectual ferment of the Victorian era, illuminating the anxieties and aspirations of a generation grappling with the implications of scientific discovery. With its rich tapestry of argument and insight, the book stands as both a vital academic research reference and a compelling resource for philosophy students. Restored for today's and future generations, this edition is not just a reprint - it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure, meticulously prepared to honour its historical significance. The text offers a rare glimpse into the philosophical currents that animated Victorian nonfiction, capturing the tension and vitality of a society on the cusp of transformation. Whether you are a casual reader drawn to the drama of science and religion, or a classic-collection buyer seeking a cornerstone of Victorian era science, this republished volume rewards with its depth, clarity, and enduring relevance.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9374122960
• ISBN13: 9789374122969
• Release Date: April 2026
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 188 Pages
• Weight: 0.57 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"