Two great men were born.
The first, Abraham Lincoln, is nearly universally recognized in the USA and elsewhere as a great, great man. He kept the young republic from fracturing, and along the way abolished slavery.
The second, Charles Darwin, is not nearly as universally recognized as a great man. Yet what he wrote in Origin of Species has had a far deeper and more powerful effect on our world than what Lincoln did. Darwin's essential insight allowed us to see more clearly the evolutionary connections between the creatures of our world. The signs of evolution are everywhere for those who will look.
Both of these men shared an essential humility, a great regard for human nature, and a deep sense of humor.
Happy Birthday, Gentlemen.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
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3 comments:
Two great men, yes. But Darwin having *far* more impact on the world than Lincoln? I think that's a stretch. Imagine a world today without a United States of America for the last 150 years. This is to take nothing away from Darwin, of course.
I think in five, ten thousand years, the point where humans discovered evolution will stand out more than the golden period of the American Empire.
... assuming we don't nuke ourselves, of course.
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