A Discourse on Instinct, with Analytical View of the Researches on Fossil Osteology.
Philadelphia: E. Ferrett & Co., 1845. First American Edition. Trade Paperback. Fair. Item #2352982
First American edition. Lacks rear wrapper, edges rubbed with minor loss from corners and significant loss along spine edges, lightly foxed throughout.
203, [1], 12 pp. Printed wrappers. An analysis of mid-19th century fossil discoveries, focusing on the work of Georges Cuvier, who proved the theory of extinction through the application of comparative anatomy to fossils. Cuvier's reconstruction of the skeletons of mastodons and other prehistoric creatures showed distinct differences between those species and existing species. Brougham's work also discusses Cuvier's successors, compares human intelligence to animal instinct, and comments on 'evidences of design.' Originally printed in London in 1844, this American edition followed shortly afterward.
Price: $50.00