Darwin demonstrated that what we see around us is a "snapshot" of natural history.  Our view sees the result of ages of natural selection.  Even with this great insight, Darwin lacked the information explaining the mechanics of natural selection.  How did "modification with descent" [Darwin's preferred usage] work down the generations.  Although natural selection underwent a brief regression with the re-discovery of Mendel’s genetics, it revived with enhanced force in the 1930s.  Ronald Fisher’s mathematical analysis demonstrated how to integrate natural selection with genetics to found what is now known as "neo-Darwinism".  The revelation of DNA’s structure consolidated that merger, leaving natural selection stronger than ever.

The idea of "design" in nature retains a rearguard force of snipers still asserting an "intelligent designer".  Ruse presents the ideas of Behe, Dembski and Johnson in their assault on natural selection.  He delicately analyses their arguments and logic.  Then, he gently but firmly consigns their ill-founded proposals to the historical rubbish heap.  They, unlike Kant or Descartes, have the evidence before them, either discounting or avoiding it.  Ruse’s sense of decency restrains his judgment where others have been more scathing in their denunciation of the delusions of the ID mob.  He’s to be commended for his articulate restraint.

Although a running theme of this book is something termed "Natural Theology", the attempt to merge nature with a divinity, Ruse proposes something different in conclusion.  He wants us to adopt a more reverent approach to the wonders of nature.  A fresh look at what nature can offer us all leads him to suggest a "theology of nature".  The similarity of terms mustn’t blind the reader in recognizing that "nature" is the object of worship here.  It’s a fitting proposal from a man who has built a reputation for linking science and philosophy.  A series of books has established his outlook, and this one is his finest work.  [stephen a. haines - Ottawa, Canada]