Evolution is a complex topic and I think it helps if students understand how our modern knowledge of evolution developed historically. Such a discussion also provides a good lesson in how science works, how science and belief systems interact, and how their relationship can change within a given social/cultural context. This chapter outlines the major stages in the development of the theory of evolution. Some of the players in the story are not mentioned; detail has been sacrificed for the sake of a clear, integrated narrative. Refer students to the works listed under "Suggested Readings" in the text to give them an idea of the complexity of the full history.
