Evolution and Wonder: Understanding Charles Darwin

About the Image

This elevation map of a coral reef island is a hand-drawn water-color sketch by Charles Darwin, date unknown.

+ (photo: Cambridge University Library)

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(Reprinted with permission of Syndics of Cambridge University Library, DAR 123:140)

» listen (mp3, 1:17) to David Kohn provide a broader context to this passage and why Darwin wrote it

Image transcription ↑

When we multiply the effects of ~~earthquakes~~, elevating forces in raising continents, & forming mountain-chains, when we estimate the matter removed by the waves of the sea, on beaches— we really, measure the rapidity of change of form, & instincts in the animal kingdom.— It is the unit of our calendar.— epochs & creations, reduce themselves to the revolutions of our system in the Heavens.— […]