The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex
The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex, published in 1871, is the book in which Charles Darwin applied his theory to human beings, a subject he had avoided in the Origin of Species. The first part argues from anatomy, embryology and behavior that humans descend from earlier animals, traces the development of the mental and moral faculties, and considers the races of man. The much longer second part sets out the theory of sexual selection, by which the choices of mates explain the plumage of birds, the horns of beetles and stags, the songs and ornaments of countless species, and the differences between men and women. Darwin's arguments about human origins caused outrage; sexual selection is now a mainstay of biology. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, with the first chapter free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex
The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex by Charles Darwin can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex online?
Yes. The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex in the public domain?
Yes. The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex by Charles Darwin is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex?
About 20 h 30 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex?
The Descent of Man, and Selection in Relation to Sex by Charles Darwin is filed under "Science & Nature" in the Vinteuil library.
