The Panda's Thumb
The Panda's Thumb
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1980
Book Brief
352
Book • Nonfiction
1980s
1980
Adult
16-18 years
1280L
Super Short Summary
The Panda’s Thumb by Stephen Jay Gould is a collection of 31 essays, originally from Gould’s “This View of Life” column in Natural History magazine, exploring evolutionary theory and its historical and social implications. The title essay examines the panda's unique thumb as an argument against intelligent design. Other essays debunk anti-scientific claims, discuss misapplications of evolution, and touch on lighter topics like the evolution of Mickey Mouse. The book includes sensitive discussions on the misuse of evolutionary theory to justify misogyny and racist ideologies.
Informative
Contemplative
Humorous
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
6,939 ratings
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Review Roundup
Stephen Jay Gould's The Panda's Thumb is celebrated for its engaging essays on evolution, blending scientific insight with accessible prose. Reviewers praise Gould's ability to elucidate complex topics, but some critique the book's verbose style and occasional digressions. Nonetheless, it remains a thought-provoking and educational read for those interested in natural history.
Who Should Read The Panda's Thumb?
A reader who would enjoy Stephen Jay Gould's The Panda’s Thumb is likely intellectually curious, appreciates evolutionary biology, and enjoys engaging with storytelling that blends science with history. Fans of Richard Dawkins' The Blind Watchmaker or Carl Sagan’s Cosmos will find this book equally thought-provoking and enlightening.
6,939 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
352
Book • Nonfiction
1980s
1980
Adult
16-18 years
1280L
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