On the Power, Wisdom and Goodness of God as Manifested in the Creation of Animals and in their History, Habits and Instincts

A clergyman and respected entomologist joins the debates about creation that preceded the Origin of Species.

William Kirby (Author)

9781108000758, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 20 July 2009

576 pages
21.6 x 14 x 3.3 cm, 0.72 kg

This extensively illustrated two-volume treatise, published in 1835, is one of a series commissioned by the Royal Society with funds bequeathed by the Earl of Bridgewater. William Kirby (1759-1850), Cambridge graduate, country parson and respected entomologist, here combines the study of the word of God with that of his works, aiming to disprove Lamarck's hypothesis that all the works of creation can be attributed to second causes, rather than a first cause, i.e. God. Kirby agrees with philosophers' objections to superstitious and bigoted adherence to the letter of scripture, but questions their lack of attention to its spirit. He explores the creation of animals in a spiritual context, and goes on to consider the functions and instincts of the major animal groups. Volume 2 includes chapters on insects, fish, reptiles, birds and mammals. This book contributed to the intellectual debates that formed the background to Darwin's work on evolution.

Explanation of plates
Introduction

13. Functions and instincts – Cirripedes and Crinoïdeans
14. Functions and instincts – Entomostracan Condylopes
15. Functions and instincts – Crustacean Condylopes
16. Functions and instincts – Myriapod Condylopes
17. Motive, locomotive and prehensory organs – Rotary organs, Tentacles, Suckers, Bristles, Natatory organs, Wings, Steering organs, Legs
18. Instinct in general
19. Functions and instincts – Arachnidans, Pseudarachnidans and Acaridan Condylopes
20. Functions and instincts – Insect Condylopes
21. Functions and instincts – Fishes
22. Functions and instincts – Reptiles
23. Functions and instincts – Birds
24. Functions and instincts – Mammalians
25. Functions and instincts – Man
Conclusion.

Subject Areas: History of ideas [JFCX]