In the Origin of Species (1859) Darwin challenged many of the most deeply held beliefs of the Western world. The present edition provides a detailed discussion of his theories and adds an account of the responses of readers to the book on first publication. These cast light on recent controversies, such as questions of design and descent.

In the Origin of Species (1859) Darwin challenged many of the most deeply held
beliefs of the Western world, dislodging man from his central position in creation
and calling into question the role of the Creator. This revised edition presents the text
in light of the most recent scholarship. In her introduction, Gillian Beer considers
in detail the first reactions to the work and Darwin's responses and appraises the
controversy in the light of the recent revival of Creationism and Intelligent Design.