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Darwin's Dangerous Idea

Evolution and the Meanings of Life

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Darwin's Dangerous Idea

By: Daniel C. Dennett
Narrated by: Kevin Stillwell
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About this listen

In a book that is both groundbreaking and accessible, Daniel C. Dennett, whom Chet Raymo of The Boston Globe calls "one of the most provocative thinkers on the planet", focuses his unerringly logical mind on the theory of natural selection, showing how Darwin's great idea transforms and illuminates our traditional view of humanity's place in the universe. Dennett vividly describes the theory itself and then extends Darwin's vision with impeccable arguments to their often surprising conclusions, challenging the views of some of the most famous scientists of our day.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2013 Daniel C. Dennett (P)2013 Audible, Inc. Biological Sciences Evolution Evolution & Genetics History Philosophy Science Genetics

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All stars
Most relevant  
Dennett's dialogue remains coherent and engaging when spoken, thanks to excellent structure and generous inclusion of allegory. Stillwell's narrative tone is spot on.

Occasional technical details might be difficult to follow if the listener is not familiar with the vocabulary of biology, but this should not prevent fluent comprehension of the work. The commentary on Gould is a dreary incongruity in an otherwise delightful exposition of Neo-Darwinism.

Coherent and engaging

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Always a thrill to see the glint of gold dust in the pan. Its work - but there is nothing like gold dust in the pan.
A deeply thoughtful reminder never to underestimate the progress our culture has made.
These words revisit - with keen, well-honed attention - some of our finest steps into the landscape of understanding.

Panning for gold dust

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hard work but only there is so much incredible content. dennett has hit the nail on the head

incredible

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Daniel Dennett has done it again he never fails to fill his books with thousands of meaningful and thoughtful examples.

Dennett is a master, the vocal work was good too.

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I now have a much better understanding of Darwinism. I found it quite technical and hard to absorb in places. Glad I persevered with it as I now feel less ignorant on the subject of Darwinian thinking.

Educational

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A long time ago on Dutch television there was a series of interviews with top scientists of different fields culminating in an evening together. Daniel Dennet was among them. I was not ready for his severity and logic then. Listening to this book by Dennet from about the same period I now think I get him. Strict and sometimes harsh to scientists who should know better, but often mild and even benign to others and other ideas with a beautiful and hopeful last chapter. I wish all of us on this planet would listen to him. And yes, mr. Stillwell did a fantastic job in performance this book. I will search for more recent werk now by mr. Dennet.

highly recommended to scientists and believers

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Excellent explanation of Darwin theory. Brings philosophical perspective to general public so even uneducated person in philosophy can understand and enjoy. Thank you

Amaizing

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Enjoyable introductory listen to the philosophy of evolution. It requires more concentration than my average listen and encourages further reading/listening. I highly recommend this book

Thought provoking

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Dennett wonderfully articulates a profound and nuanced account of how the ideas underlying natural selection pierce into almost all aspects of life. This is the Bible of natural philosophy :P

One of the most profound books I have ever read

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Is there anything you would change about this book?

A problem listening to this book is the frequency of lengthy quotations Dennett uses to bolster his argument, both at start of sections and within the text. It is often difficult to tell when it is Dennett you are listening to or Dennett lengthily quoting someone else... frustrating!!Also - though a pdf file is available for the figures/diagrams referred to this is not helpful while listening on the move...Still - a classic text and stimulating in parts...

Would you listen to another book narrated by Kevin Stillwell?

I had to listen in at 1.25 speed cos he gets a tad monotonous real-time...

Was Darwin's Dangerous Idea worth the listening time?

I'd already read the book - so was testing out Audible more than Dennett.The former's bang on for me, the latter's sounding a little dated!!

Numersous quotations make for confusing listening!

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