Description
“Bully for Brontosaurus: Reflections in Natural History” is a collection of essays by the renowned paleontologist, evolutionary biologist, and science historian Stephen Jay Gould. It was first published in 1991.
In “Bully for Brontosaurus,” Gould covers a wide range of topics related to natural history, evolution, and science. The essays are written in Gould’s signature style, blending scientific insight with wit, humor, and literary references.
The title essay, “Bully for Brontosaurus,” discusses the controversy surrounding the classification of the dinosaur Brontosaurus, which was initially considered a distinct genus but later deemed to be a species of Apatosaurus. Gould uses this example to explore the process of scientific discovery, classification, and the role of scientific terminology in shaping our understanding of the natural world.
Other essays in the collection cover subjects such as the evolution of human intelligence, the history of paleontology, the myths surrounding the life of Charles Darwin, and the interactions between science and society.
“Bully for Brontosaurus” is praised for its clarity, erudition, and Gould’s ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to a general audience. It is a thought-provoking and entertaining read for anyone interested in natural history, evolution, and the workings of the scientific mind.
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