The Social Conquest of Earth

Listeners who are wondering about the meaning of human existence--and who isn't?--are provided with some unsettling answers in this production. We exist, according to Wilson, because we have miraculously made it through a Darwinian maze, managing along the way to temper our selfish individual survival traits with altruism--which is necessary for group success. But where did this altruism originate? Wilson discredits a popular scientific theory to advance a new explanation for our "virtuous" behavior. There's a lot to ponder here--science, religion, and culture--and Jonathan Hogan's narration provides clarity, rhythm, and empathy for the author's mission. But even with this wonderful combination of narration and text, listeners may also long for the print version in order to revisit the many theoretical gems of wisdom. R.W.S. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine

October 1, 2012

The renowned evolutionary biologist, Harvard professor, and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner offers an engrossing exploration of the scientific origins of the human condition. Wilson believes that to understand the human condition, first we must understand how humankind came to have advanced social lives and the capacity for altruistic behavior. Wilson asks if, as Darwin stated, evolution is driven by the survival of the fittest, what explanation can there be for the existence of altruism in beehives, ant colonies, and human society? Jonathan Hogan's warm narration has the feel of a lecture by a favorite college professor, and his pacing perfectly complements the author's fascinating look at "What are we, where did we come from, and where are we going?" VERDICT Recommended for those who enjoy scientific histories such as Jared Diamond's Guns, Germs and Steel. ["Here's a scientist's-eye view, no doubt gracefully told, explaining why we humans have inherited the earth. Important," read the review of the Norton hc, LJ 3/15/12.--Ed.]--Beth Farrell, Cleveland State Univ. Law Lib.

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