A brief history of creation : science and the search for the origin of life

Over the centuries, the search for the answer to how life began has been entwined with some of science's most revolutionary advances.

Now, in an age of genetic engineering and space exploration, some scientists believe they are on the verge of creating life from non-living elements and our knowledge of the potential for life on other planets is ever expanding.

In the midst of this, A Brief History of Creation provides an illuminating history of Western science, tracing the trials and triumphs of the scientists who have sought to discover how life came to be. Bill Mesler and H. James Cleaves II examine historical discoveries in the context of philosophical debates, political change and our evolving understanding of the complexity of biology.

A Brief History of Creation is a fascinating exploration not only of the origin-of-life question but of the very nature of scientific objectivity and discovery.