Genre:

Review, Serial

Publications reviewed:

Haeckel 1868

Subjects:

Geology, Palaeontology, Taxonomy, Evolution, Comparative Anatomy, Descent

People mentioned:

Vladimir O Kovalevsky , John Goodsir

    Beginning with geology, the 'only one point upon which I fundamentally and entirely disagree with Professor Haeckel' (40), Huxley continues his examination of The Natural History of Creation. Rejecting Haeckel's conception of intervals between the various geological epochs of which no records exist, he points to the actual extent of the completeness of the geological record, as well as the fact that the crocodilian, lacertilian, and chelonian Reptilia 'form of terrestrial life persisted, throughout all these ages, with no important modification' (41). In addition, he also indicates numerous problems with the taxonomy based on Haeckel's concept of phylogeny. Nevertheless, Huxley finishes the second notice by stating 'I do not like to conclude without reminding the reader of my entire concurrence with the general tenor and spirit of the work, and of my high estimate of its value' (43).