The Structure of Evolutionary Theory
The theory of evolution is regarded as one of the greatest glimmerings  of understanding humans have ever had. It is an idea of science, not of  belief, and therefore undergoes constant scrutiny and testing by  argumentative evolutionary biologists. But while Darwinists may disagree  on a great many things, they all operate within a (thus far) successful  framework of thought first set down inThe Origin of Speciesin 1859.InThe Structure of Evolutionary Theory, a monumental labor of  academic love, Stephen Jay Gould attempts to define and revise that  framework. Using the clear metaphors and personable style he is so well  known for, Gould outlines the foundation of the theory and attempts to  use it to show that modern evolutionary biology has lost its way. He  then offers his own system for reconciling Darwin's "basic logical  commitments" with the critiques of modern scientists.Gould's massive opus begs a new look at natural selection with the full  weight of history behind it. His opponents will find much to criticize,  and orthodox, reductionist Darwinists might feel that Gould has given  them short shrift. But as an opening monologue for the new century's  biological debates,The Structure of Evolutionary Theorysets a  mountainous precedent in exhaustive scholarship, careful logic, and  sheer reading pleasure.--Therese Littleton