ALFRED RUSSEL WALLACE

Tras acompañar a H. W. Bates en su exploración por el Amazonas (de 1848 a 1852), Alfred Russel Wallace emprende la exploración del archipiélago malayo con el objetivo de avanzar en los descubrimientos sobre la seleccion natural de las especies. De resultas de este viaje (1854-1862), y seis años despues, Wallace publica The Malay Archipielago (1869), obra cumbre de la literatura de viajes y un referente de los libros de ciencias del siglo XIX.

It is with great diffidence, but under an imperative sense of duty, that the present writer accepts the opportunity afforded him of submitting to his readers some general account of a widespread movement, which, though for the most part treated with ridicule or contempt, he believes to embody truths of the most vital importance to human progress.[1] The subject to be treated is of such vast extent, the evidence concerning it is so varied and so extraordinary, the prejudices that surround it are so inveterate, that it is not possible to do it justice without entering into considerable detail. The reader who ventures on the perusal of the succeeding pages may, therefore, have his patience tried; but if he is able to throw aside his preconceived ideas of what is possible and what is impossible, and in the acceptance or rejection of the evidence submitted to him will carefully weigh and be solely guided by the nature of the concurrent testimony, the writer ventures to believe that he will not find his time and patience ill bestowed.

"The Geographical Distribution of Animals" in 2 volumes is one of the best-known works by Alfred Russel Wallace. Extending the system developed by the British zoologist Philip Sclater for birds which divided the earth into six separate geographic regions for describing species distribution to cover mammals, reptiles and insects as well, Wallace created the basis for the zoogeographic regions still in use today. He discussed all of the factors then known to influence the current and past geographic distribution of animals within each geographic region, and provided maps showing factors, such as elevation of mountains, depths of oceans, and the character of regional vegetation, that affected the distribution of animals. Wallace summarized all the known families and genera of the higher animals and listed their known geographic distributions.Volume 1:The Principles and General Phenomena of Distribution:IntroductoryThe Means of Dispersal and the Migrations of AnimalsOn Zoological RegionClassification as Affecting the Study of Geographical DistributionOn the Distribution of Extinct Animals:The Extinct Mammalia of the Old WorldExtinct Mammalia of the New WorldVarious Extinct AnimalsZoological Geography:The Order of Succession of the RegionsThe Palarctic RegionThe Ethiopian RegionThe Oriental RegionThe Australian RegionVolume 2:The Neotropical RegionThe Nearctic RegionSummary of the Past Changes and General Relations of the Several RegionsGeographical Zoology:IntroductionThe Distribution of the Families and Genera of MammaliaThe Distribution of the Families and Genera of BirdsThe Distribution of the Families and Genera of Reptiles and AmphibiaThe Distribution of the Families of FishesThe Distribution of Some of the More Important Families and Genera of InsectsAn Outline of the Geographical Distribution of MolluscaSummary of the Distribution and Lines of Migration of the Several Classes of Animals

In Alfred Russel Wallaces book, The History of Malay Archipelago, readers are taken on a fascinating journey through the diverse islands of Southeast Asia. Wallace provides a detailed account of the regions natural history, including its flora, fauna, and indigenous cultures. Written in the form of a travelogue, the book combines scientific observations with vivid descriptions of the landscapes and people he encounters. Wallaces engaging narrative style and keen eye for detail make this book both informative and entertaining, offering a valuable insight into the Malay Archipelago in the 19th century. As one of the early works in the field of biogeography, Wallaces book remains a significant contribution to the study of biodiversity and evolution. His groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection, developed independently of Charles Darwin, is also a key aspect of his writing. Readers interested in natural history, anthropology, and the history of science will find The History of Malay Archipelago a captivating and enlightening read.

In "Island Life; Or, The Phenomena and Causes of Insular Faunas and Floras," Alfred Russel Wallace meticulously explores the unique biodiversity found in island ecosystems. He combines meticulous observation with a vivid, descriptive prose style, weaving together biological data and geographic insights to illustrate how isolation affects evolution. Drawing on various case studies of island flora and fauna, Wallace examines both the adaptive mechanisms of survival and the profound impact of environmental factors on species development, situating his work within the broader context of 19th-century evolutionary theory.

The Malay Archipelago is a book by the British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace that chronicles his scientific exploration, during the eight-year period 1854 to 1862, of the southern portion of the Malay Archipelago including Malaysia, Singapore, the islands of Indonesia, then known as the Dutch East Indies, and the island of New Guinea. Its full title was The Malay Archipelago: The land of the orang-utan, and the bird of paradise. A narrative of travel, with sketches of man and nature.It was first published in 1869 in two volumes by Macmillan and Company (London) and the same year in one volume by Harper & Brothers (New York). It was revised through 10 editions with the last published in 1890. It is considered to be one of the most influential books ever written about the Indonesian islands.Alfred Russel Wallace, OM, FRS (18231913) was an English naturalist, explorer, geographer, anthropologist and biologist.

Il famoso studioso gallese Wallace con argomenti presentati come inoppugnabili, e citando con dovizia di particolari una ricca casistica, si propone di dimostrare in maniera incontrovertibile lesistenza dei fantasmiIndice dei contenuti:Fede vecchia e fede nuovaDubbi e incertezzeScienza e religione in conflittoFelicita o miseria del genere umanoNecessita etiche di unaltra vitaFantasmi, visioni, avvertimenti, previsioni ecc. La credenza in Satana e le manifestazioni diaboliche, Fenomeni di magiaI miracoli non sono fatti scientificiLo spiritualismo modernoMaterialismo e spiritualismoNon ce morteLa realta di una vita futuraCertezza delle prove scientifiche inoppugnabili nel campo fisico ed in quello intellettualeLa levitazione del corpo umanoFenomeni musicali, chimici, fotografici, di chiaroveggenza o auditivi, di trasfigurazione ecc. solennemente dimostrati ed affermati dalla scienza in merito alle apparizioni degli spiritiI morti sono vivi!... A che serve lo Spiritismo e che fanno gli spiriti nellaltra vitaInsegnamenti e filosofia del vero Spiritualismo

In the groundbreaking anthology "On the Tendency of Species to Form Varieties," readers are invited to explore the revolutionary thoughts that underpin the science of biodiversity and evolution. This collection pulls together a selection of essays and articles that illuminate the processes by which species diverge and adapt over time, forming a rich tapestry of insights into natural selection and variation. Through a blend of scientific prose and theoretical expositions, the anthology captures the pioneering spirit of evolutionary thought, offering pieces that challenge and confirm existing paradigms. Notable works within highlight the dynamic interactions between species and their environments, offering a meticulously curated glimpse into the collective advancements in understanding species differentiation. The anthologys contributors, Alfred Russel Wallace and Charles Robert Darwin, stand at the helm of the evolutionary science movement. Both titans in the fields of natural history and biology, their collaborative and individual contributions highlight a pivotal moment in scientific historyAia confluence of thought that spawned new directions in biological sciences. As contemporaries and correspondents, the exchange and eventual synthesis of their ideas in this collection reflect the broader 19th-century fascination with natural phenomena and the burgeoning theories that would forever alter our grasp of natural history. For readers desiring to delve into the roots of evolutionary theory, this anthology offers a rare juxtaposition of thought from two of the fields most influential figures. It presents a mosaic of intellectual exploration, tracing the rich diversity of scientific discourse that arose during a period of critical discovery. "On the Tendency of Species to Form Varieties" serves as an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the origins of evolutionary biology, providing a platform to engage with the timeless dialogue between Wallace, Darwin, and the continuing quest to understand lifes complexity.

The Malay Archipelago is a book by the British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace which chronicles his scientific exploration, during the eight-year period 1854 to 1862, of the southern portion of the Malay Archipelago including Malaysia, Singapore, the islands of Indonesia, and the island of New Guinea. The book describes each island that he visited in turn, giving a detailed account of its physical and human geography, its volcanoes, and the variety of animals and plants that he found and collected. At the same time, he describes his experiences, the difficulties of travel, and the help he received from the different peoples that he met.

Of all the extraordinary Victorian travelogues, The Malay Archipelago has a fair claim to be the greatest - both as a beautiful, alarming, vivid and gripping account of some eight years` travel across the entire Malay world - from Singapore to the western edges of New Guinea - and as the record of a great mind. As Wallace, often under conditions of terrible hardship and sickness, battles through jungles, lives with headhunters, and collects beetles, butterflies and birds-of-paradise, he makes discoveries about the workings of biology that have shaped our view of the world ever since.

Tras acompañar a H. W. Bates en su exploración por el Amazonas, Alfred Russel Wallace (1823-1913) decide viajar por el Archipiélago Malayo, para completar sus conocimientos sobre el principio de la seleccion natural. De resultas de este viaje (1845-62), y seis años despues, Wallace escribe Viaje al Archipielago Malayo, una de las obras cumbres de la literatura de viajes y de los libros de ciencias del siglo pasado, del que hoy presentamos sus segunda y tercera partes: Timor y Celebes.

In "A Defence of Modern Spiritualism," Alfred Russel Wallace, co-founder of the theory of evolution through natural selection, embarks on a critical examination of spiritual phenomena and the burgeoning spiritualist movement of the late 19th century. Wallace employs a rational and scientific lens to explore various instances of mediumship, psychic occurrences, and the interplay between science and the inexplicable. His eloquent literary style reflects a harmonious blend of scientific inquiry and philosophical contemplation, positioning his work as a vital discourse within the wider context of the Victorian eras fascination with paranormal experiences and the search for lifes ultimate purpose. Alfred Russel Wallace, a naturalist and explorer, was deeply influenced by the spiritualist ideas that circulated during his lifetime. Having spent many years studying the natural world and grappling with questions of existence, Wallace sought to synthesize his scientific background with the spiritual insights garnered from his explorations. His position as a pioneer of evolutionary thought often intersected with his belief in the potential realities of spiritualism, making his defense both a personal endeavor and a scientific investigation. For readers intrigued by the intersections of science, philosophy, and the supernatural, Wallaces "A Defence of Modern Spiritualism" is an indispensable text. This book will not only challenge preconceived notions of spirituality in the context of science but also compel readers to ponder the deeper mysteries of existence, making it a timeless and thought-provoking piece.

In "Palm Trees of the Amazon and Their Uses," Alfred Russel Wallace presents a meticulous exploration of the diverse species of palm trees found in the Amazon rainforest, illuminating their myriad ecological and utilitarian roles. Wallaces literary style combines vivid, observational prose with scientific rigor, reflecting the Victorian eras passion for natural history. Through detailed descriptions and classifications, he situates the palms within the broader context of Amazonian biodiversity, while also addressing the intersections of indigenous knowledge and Western scientific inquiry, early aspirations of sustainable resource use, and the challenges posed by encroaching colonization. Alfred Russel Wallace, a contemporary of Charles Darwin and a pioneering naturalist in his own right, is celebrated for his contributions to the theory of evolution and biogeography. His lifelong fascination with the natural world, spurred by his extensive travels in the Amazon and the Malay Archipelago, enabled him to develop a keen understanding of plant life and its importance to both ecosystems and human societies. This book reflects his holistic worldview and underscores his commitment to documenting and preserving the natural treasures of the tropics. Recommended for botanists, ecologists, and enthusiasts of natural history, "Palm Trees of the Amazon and Their Uses" serves as both an informative guide and a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human activity. WallaceAos work invites readers to appreciate the palmsAo beauty and their vital role in indigenous cultures, offering insights that remain relevant to contemporary discussions on conservation and sustainable practices.

In 1907 Wallace wrote the short book Is Mars Habitable? to criticize the claims made by Percival Lowell that there were Martian canals built by intelligent beings. Wallace did months of research, consulted various experts, and produced his own scientific analysis of the martian climate and atmospheric conditions. Among other things Wallace pointed out that spectroscopic analysis had shown no signs of water vapour in the Martian atmosphere, that Lowells analysis of Marss climate was seriously flawed and badly overestimated the surface temperature, and that low atmospheric pressure would make liquid water, let alone a planet girding irrigation system, impossible.

Gli argomenti trattati dallautore in questo libro sono: Fede vecchia e fede nuova; Dubbi e incertezze; Scienza e religione in conflitto; Felicita o miseria del genere umano; Necessita etiche di unaltra vita; Fantasmi, visioni, avvertimenti, previsioni ecc.; La credenza in Satana e le manifestazioni diaboliche; Fenomeni di magia; I miracoli non sono fatti scientifici; Lo spiritualismo moderno; Materialismo e spiritualismo; Non ce morte; La realta di una vita futura; Certezza delle prove scientifiche inoppugnabili nel campo fisico e in quello intellettuale; La levitazione del corpo umano; Fenomeni musicali, chimici, fotografici, di chiaroveggenza o auditivi, di trasfigurazione ecc. solennemente dimostrati e affermati dalla scienza in merito alle apparizioni degli spiriti; I morti sono vivi!... A che serve lo Spiritismo e che fanno gli spiriti nellaltra vita; Insegnamenti e filosofia del vero Spiritualismo.

In Alfred Russel Wallaces groundbreaking work, The Geographical Distribution of Animals, readers are taken on a journey through the world of zoogeography, exploring the patterns and causes of animal distribution across different continents. Wallace meticulously examines the similarities and differences in animal species found in different geographical regions, shedding light on the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the evolutionary processes that have shaped them. Written with a precise scientific approach, the book provides valuable insights into the complex relationships between geography, climate, and species diversity, making it a cornerstone of modern ecological studies. Wallaces vivid descriptions and detailed analysis bring the natural world to life, captivating readers with his passion for the study of nature. Inspired by his extensive travels and observations in remote regions, Wallaces work reflects his pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to understanding the mysteries of the natural world. The Geographical Distribution of Animals is a must-read for anyone interested in the intricate web of life on Earth, offering a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for further exploration.

Tras acompañar a H.W. Bates en su exploración por el Amazonas, Alfred Russel Wallace (1823-1913) decidió viajar por el Archipiélago Malayo, para completar sus conocimientos sobre el principio de la seleccion natural. De resultas de este viaje (1854-62), y seis años despues, Wallace escribe Viaje al Archipielago Malayo, una de las obras cumbres de la literatura de viajes y de los libros de ciencias del siglo pasado, del que hoy presentamos su primera parte: Las Islas Indo-Malayas.

"Mans Place in the Universe," by British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, was originally published in 1904. It is a fascinating work on astronomy that deals with important aspects of cosmology and analyses the possibilities of life existing elsewhere in the universe. Wallace made a huge contribution to the natural sciences and he will continue to be remembered as one of the key figures in the development of evolutionary theory.

In "Island Life; Or, The Phenomena and Causes of Insular Faunas and Floras," Alfred Russel Wallace meticulously explores the unique biodiversity found on islands, delving into the complex interplay between geographical isolation and ecological development. Employing rigorous observational techniques and drawing from both natural history and emerging evolutionary theory, Wallace presents a compelling argument for the significant role of islands in the study of species evolution. His engaging prose and clear illustrations serve to bridge the gap between scientific inquiry and literary expression, making this work not only a significant contribution to biogeography but also a captivating read for those interested in the natural world. Alfred Russel Wallace, renowned as a co-developer of the theory of natural selection, was greatly influenced by his expeditions in the Amazon and the Malay Archipelago. His keen observations of flora and fauna, coupled with a profound curiosity about the natural sciences, shaped his understanding of island ecosystems. This background instilled in him a deep appreciation for biodiversity and the importance of geographic factors in wildlife distribution, leading Wallace to articulate his findings in this pioneering work. "Island Life" is an essential read for anyone intrigued by the intricacies of evolution, ecology, and biodiversity. Wallaces insights into insularity illuminate the delicate balance of nature, making this book a vital resource for scholars, students, and nature enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the ongoing relevance of these concepts in contemporary environmental discussions.

In "Vaccination a Delusion: Its Penal Enforcement a Crime," Alfred Russel Wallace presents a compelling critique of mandatory vaccination practices in the late 19th century. Wallace employs a rigorously analytical style, interweaving empirical evidence with philosophical argumentation to challenge the prevailing medical orthodoxy. He positions vaccination within the broader discourse on public health and individual rights, exploring the ethical implications of state intervention in personal health decisions. This work emerges at a time when the tension between scientific advancement and civil liberties was increasingly fraught, reflecting both a societal quest for health and the legitimate concerns regarding medical overreach. Alfred Russel Wallace, a renowned naturalist and co-discoverer of the theory of evolution by natural selection, relied upon his robust scientific background to inform his views on vaccination. His experiences traveling through the malarial jungles of the Amazon and the Malay Archipelago exposed him to various diseases and their treatments, shaping his critical stance. Wallaces lifelong commitment to social reform and individual rights further motivated him to question the ethical ramifications of compulsory vaccination, culminating in this provocative text. This book is essential reading for historians, medical ethicists, and anyone interested in the intersection of science, health policy, and human rights. WallaceAos arguments resonate with contemporary debates about bodily autonomy and public health, making this work both timely and timeless. Engagingly written yet thoroughly researched, it invites readers to reflect on the delicate balance between community health and personal freedom.