The Origin of the Species

5W Charles Darwin. London: John Murray, Albemarle Street, 1860. Second Printing.

Notes

Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, published in 1859, is one of the most influential scientific works ever written. In it, Darwin introduced the groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection, proposing that species are not fixed but evolve over time through a process where organisms better adapted to their environments survive and reproduce. Drawing on evidence from his voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, as well as years of meticulous research in natural history, Darwin challenged the prevailing view that all species were individually created and immutable.

The book was revolutionary not just for its scientific content, but also for its philosophical implications. It shifted the understanding of humanity's place in the natural world and provoked intense debate in both scientific and religious circles. Written in accessible language, Darwin’s work appealed to both specialists and the broader public, making evolutionary biology a central topic of discussion. Though controversial at the time, On the Origin of Species laid the foundation for modern biology and continues to influence science to this day.

The second edition of Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, published in January 1860, is notable for being released just months after the first edition due to overwhelming public interest and scientific debate. While the core content remained the same, Darwin made several minor but meaningful revisions in response to early criticism. One of the most significant changes was the addition of the phrase “by the Creator” to the final sentence, softening the theological implications of his theory. He also clarified his use of the term “natural selection,” acknowledging it might not explain all aspects of evolution. Over the next two decades, Darwin would continue to revise the text through six editions, with the sixth (1872) being the most expanded. The second edition, then, represents a pivotal moment when Origin began to evolve alongside the public and scientific reaction it provoked.

Description

Green cloth bound boards with blind stamping to the upper and lower boards and gilt stamping to the spine. Gilt title on spine as well. Deckled edges and brown endpapers. One fold out page. Minimal fraying to corners as well as the upper and lower spine. Some discoloration along upper spine. Black mark in lower left of the upper board. General rubbing to extremities and a couple bumps along them as well. Bookbinders tape to upper hinge to secure endpaper. Sound binding. Fully intact. Few light pencil marks throughout. Very good condition overall.