Clash of Religion and Science: The Studies of Charles Darwin By: Lauren H. and Celeste M.

The Clash of Religion and Science  In the Victorian Era, religious beliefs and science were seen to work perfectly together. It was argued that natural objects show design, showing evidence of a designing God.  This belief was challenged when Darwin introduced the theory of evolution and that humans could simply be another form of animal.

The Beginning of New Theories  Darwin went on a “round-the-world” trip where he studied the works of Alexander von Humboldt and Charles Lyell. Lyell suggested that the world was formed not by “great catastrophes,” but by processes we see today.  Darwin also questioned the origin of new species. He speculated on why the species of fossils in certain areas were now extinct in those same areas.

Theories of Evolution  Charles Darwin’s theories of evolution started when he came to the conclusion that “supposed limits or barriers between to species were a myth.”  He believed that all organisms could evolve infinitely into new species.

Theory of Natural Selection  Darwin read Malthus on Population, and drawing from prior knowledge and was he gathered from this work, he had a realization. In nature, favorable variations in a species would be preserved, while unfavorable ones would not.  He theorized that some force kills of individuals so that the strong survivors are lift to carry out their strong traits.

Modern Misunderstanding  Some commentators misunderstand the meaning of the phrase “origin of species” by thinking that Darwin meant “origin of life.” They say that Darwin “failed to throw light on the origin of life,” but that was not what his theories were about.  People were “disturbed” his implications about the origin of man, and how we too were just animals; creatures of evolution.

Concept of Change  The Victorian Era was the first time that religion was challenged with science.  This change was somewhat orderly, and happened based on theories backed up by empirical evidence.  The change was positive because it opened peoples minds to new, more logical ideas.  This was a manmade change (made by Darwin).

Works Cited Wyhe, John van. “The Clash of Religion and Science in the Victorian Era.” VictorianWeb.org. Cambridge University. N.d. Web. 23 August 2012.