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1859- Published "On the Origin of Species"
Charles Darwin's work "On the Origin of Species" introduced many concepts including natural selection, which explains how genetics in a species may change over a period of time. His theory challenged religious beliefs, such as the view that God had originally created all species of plant and animal life, just as they exist today (One Book One Northwestern, n.d.). -
1871- Published "The Descent of Man"
In Darwin's work "The Descent of Man", he applies his theory of evolution into humans. He states that humans are not much different than other animals and went through similar processes of natural selection and adaption. His ideas about evolution in humans were very controversial at the time and is still debated to this day. -
1872- Published "The Expression of the Emotion in Man and Animals"
In Darwin's work "The Expression of the Emotion in Man and Animals", Darwin covered the ways in which humans and animals express emotion through facial expressions and body language. He states in this book that these expressions of emotion are not learned behaviors but are rather innate and universal. Perhaps evolution and instinct played a part in this behavior. This work had great impact on the field of psychology and neuroscience and helped foreword the study of nonverbal communication. -
1881- Published "The Formation of Vegetable Mould, Through the Action of Worms"
This book was the last work published by Darwin. Here, he shifted the attention to earthworms. He states that although earthworms seem like very simple beings, they actually have a crucial role in the formation of soil and the environment. Although this work wasn't as influential as his previous works, it demonstrated the curiosity he had for the natural world.