Darwin and the Monsters

The Long History of Cryptozoology
1. Auflage 2026
ISBN: 978-1-032-78634-6
Verlag: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Buch, Englisch, 192 Seiten, Format (B × H): 156 mm x 234 mm

Regal tells the story of the engagement of philosophers, naturalists and scientists in what we now call cryptozoology, a much longer history than most appreciate.

Most believe cryptozoology—the study of mysterious, unrecognized creatures—emerged in the twentieth century. But the fascination with monsters and the unknown stretches back to the ancient world. Long before the term was coined, philosophers and naturalists pondered the existence of cryptids, weaving them into the fabric of scientific curiosity. Challenging the notion that mainstream science has always dismissed cryptids, it reveals a rich history of inquiry and debate.

Offering a groundbreaking examination of the long and complex history of cryptozoology, Regal situates it within broader debates about biology, evolution, and the limits of scientific knowledge. A fascinating read for students and scholars of cryptozoology, the history of biology and zoology, and science technology and society studies.

Zielgruppe

Postgraduate, Undergraduate Advanced, and Undergraduate Core

Autoren/Hrsg.

Regal, Brian

Fachgebiete

• Sozialwissenschaften Soziologie | Soziale Arbeit Spezielle Soziologie Wissenssoziologie, Wissenschaftssoziologie, Techniksoziologie
• Geisteswissenschaften Philosophie Erkenntnistheorie
• Interdisziplinäres Wissenschaften Wissenschaften: Allgemeines Geschichte der Naturwissenschaften, Formalen Wissenschaften & Technik

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Introduction; 1. Monsters of the Ancient and Early Modern Worlds; 2. Collecting Monsters; 3. Worrisome Wolves and Beastly Men; 4. The Fearless Sea-Serpent Killers; 5. The True Believers; 6. Darwin and the Monsters; 7. The Invention of Cryptozoology; Conclusion

Über Autor(innen)

Brian Regal is Professor of The History of Science, Technology and Medicine at Kean University, USA.