This is a student's guide to the historical context, central ideas and key works in Darwin's thought. Charles Darwin's theory of descent with modification is one of the most important scientific theories ever conceived. In "Darwin: A Guide for the Perplexed", Thomas Weber takes a historical approach to exploring the complex scientific, social and political context in which Darwin's theory of evolution is embedded. Many of the themes addressed by Darwin were not new, either to him or to his readers. Darwin's work was deeply rooted in traditions of natural history, geology and moral philosophy. This book offers a clear and thorough account of the work and thought of this key thinker, providing an outline of his central ideas and the ways in which they developed. Weber lays out a detailed summary of "The Origin of the Species" and Darwin's other key works, and considers their reception and the various interpretations of Darwin's theory. Finally the book explores new developments in Darwinian scholarship, including sociobiology, evolutionary psychology, gene-culture co-evolution and evolutionary developmental biology. This concise and accessible book engages the reader in a deeper critical analysis of Darwinism. "Continuum's Guides for the Perplexed" are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging - or indeed downright bewildering. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to grasp, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material.