On The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin

Darwin, Charles
Published by John Murray, 1860

On The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, or the Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life.

Second Edition, Fifth Thousand. London: John Murray 1860. Octavo (7 1/2 x 4 3/4 inches; 19 x 12 cm). ix, 502pp., plus the 32pp. publisher's catalogue at rear (dated January 1860). With the folding diagram/table at page 117. This is the highly collectible second edition of Darwin's groundbreaking work, arguably the most influential scientific book ever written. Published in 1860, this edition features the corrected "species" misprint from the first and includes revisions by Darwin.

In near fine condition, displaying only minor wear to the spine ends and a subtle vertical crease. Internally, the pages remain fresh and bright, with the hinges firmly intact. Overall, this beautifully preserved cornerstone of scientific literature is a testament to its enduring appeal.

Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species stands as a cornerstone of modern science, often hailed as the most influential scientific publication of the nineteenth century. Darwin not only presented a revolutionary understanding of the natural world through his theory of evolution by natural selection, but also profoundly impacted our philosophical and intellectual frameworks. The recognition of constant change as the fundamental principle of the universe, as emphasized by historian Peter J. Bowler (PMM), marked a significant advancement in our understanding of the natural order.

The second edition of On the Origin of Species saw minor revisions, notably the correction of a misprint in the word 'species.' Darwin also toned down the controversial "whale-bear" story, a change he later acknowledged with regret, though he never fully reinstated the original passage