RECORD: Anon. 1873. [Review of Expression]. Scientific and literary. Tennessean (5 January): 2.

REVISION HISTORY: Transcribed by Christine Chua and edited by John van Wyhe 10.2022. RN1


[page] 2

THE EXPRESSION OF THE EMOTIONS IN MAN AND ANIMALS. By Charles Darwin, M.A., F.R.S., etc. New York: D. Appleton & Co., 1873.

This is one of the most interesting of the Darwin series, and of the Darwinian theory of the origin of species. Though not specially designed for the edification of beginners, it is adapted to the non-scientific public, and as far as possible explanatory in character and free from technicalities. A number of striking photographic and other illustrations very materially aid the unscientific reader's comprehension of the interesting subjects discussed. It does not treat of physiognomy merely—the recognition of character through the study of the permanent form of the features—but of the emotions in man and animals, as revealed in changes of expression. Mr. Darwin's observations of the expressions of the several passions were begun in 1838, at a time when he was inclined to believe in the principle of evolution, and have been continued at intervals from that time to the writing of the volume before us. It contains a vast amount of collected information from the highest known authorities, and from the closest and most thoughtful personal observation, which are of a very valuable character. The first chapters treat of the general principles of expression; the means of expression in animals described, and illustrated by a clever artist in the most faithful and accurate manner. The several passions and emotions of humanity as revealed in expression and movement or gesture, are ably treated in the successive chapters. In the author's concluding remarks and summary, is discussed the three leading principles which have determined the chief movement of expression, and the part which the will and intention have played in the acquirement of various expressions. The study of this theory of expression, confirms to certain limited extent the author's conclusion that man is derived from some lower animal form, and supports the belief of the specific or sub-specific unity of the several races. From these several causes he concludes that the philosophy of his subject has well deserved the attention which it has already received from several excellent observers, and that it deserves still further attention, especially from the ablest physiologists. None of the important facts collected by Dr. Darwin, and contributed to the scientific literature of our time, are more entertaining and instructive than those contained in this compact volume.

 


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Citation: John van Wyhe, ed. 2002-. The Complete Work of Charles Darwin Online. (http://darwin-online.org.uk/)

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