Bowler demonstrates that Darwin largely ignored palaeontology as a source of reliable information to support his own theories. However, what was ignored by Darwin was enthusiastically embraced by later 19th century biologists trying to reconstruct patterns of evolution, recognizing palaeontology as the only direct test for their theories. LSD successfully demonstrates how the interweaving of ideas in an interdisciplinary programme of palaeontology, biogeography and evolutionary morphology enabled these early evolutionary theorists, both Darwinian and non-Darwinian, to explore the history of life.
LSD is very well written. Peter Bowler shows an admirable ability to immerse the reader in his chosen subject despite its complexity, although concentration is needed from the reader to fully appreciate the true breadth of the discussion. Although sparsely illustrated, all ®gures are highly relevant, even if not all are referred to in the text. Spelling errors are few. I applaud the inclusion of a bibliographical appendix with 92 entries Ð with so many characters involved in such a complex `plot'. I found this invaluable for keeping me informed of who was where and when. The bibliography is extensive (50 pages) and the index appears adequate.
LSD is a book of many strands. Indeed, the book reviewer, taking notes and using a highlighting pen, probably has an advantage over a more `casual' reader. However, eort by the reader will be amply repaid. This book gives an excellent, and repeated, illustration that the pathways to our modern conceptions of evolutionary processes and patterns, particularly concerning the relationships between major groups, are littered with BOOK REVIEWS 415