The paradox of evolution : the strange relationship between natural selection and reproduction / Stephen Rothman.

Amherst, New York : Prometheus Books, 2015.

248 pages ; 23 cm

Includes bibliographical references (pages 221-226) and index.

Two mysteries -- a story of nature and science -- A most extraordinary theory -- the remarkable impact of a scientific theory on society -- A look inside Darwin's theory -- is the theory of evolution by means of natural selection internally consistent? -- The meaning of natural selection -- defining natural selection -- One for all did natural selection produce the mechanisms of reproduction? -- The other beginning -- the reproduction of cells -- Reproduction beyond replicating molecules and reproducing cells- -- Natural selection and the evolution of the reproductive mechanisms of life -- Iridescent brilliance -- Darwin worries about peacocks and finds sexual selection -- On the importance of small differences-the basis for sexual attraction -- In the eyes of the beholder -- utility vs. beauty in sexual attraction -- The great contradiction -- teleology rears its ugly head -- Purpose-teleology cannot be denied -- Darwin's teleology of survival -- the scientific basis for purpose in life -- The laws of nature-purpose from physical law -- The purposes of reproduction-why reproduction? -- The means-the agency of reproductive selection -- The final cause of reproduction -- what causes reproductive evolution? -- "For the sake of which...".