Charles Darwin's profound influence on Australian thinking is explored from a variety of positions in this carefully researched analysis. Providing useful contextual material on Darwin's life and times, including his 1836 visit to Australia in the HMS Beagle, the narrative examines historic disputes and contemporary debates about Darwin's motivations and methods. This reference also displays his scientific conclusions and their social consequences while outlining the various ways in which Darwin's work continues to shape Australian public policy and private behavior.