Darwin and Lincoln

As you probably know, today is the 200th anniversary of the births of both Abraham Lincoln and Charles Darwin-- two amazingly influential men.

Lincoln is known for the Civil War-- and whatever its motives and outcomes (relative to whatever the alternatives might have looked like), it has undeniably shaped the American experience. One key loss from Lincoln's effort: a kick in the shorts to states' rights.

While appropriate at times, ethically and practically, the big move down that spectrum has caused a lot of trouble for our country-- especially as pro-government arguments have gained sway. "Big govt" at the local level is one thing-- small in effect, limited in scope, restricted in its ability because of competition with other local govts. Big govt at the national level is quite another matter.

While Lincoln's impact speaks to my career and vocation, I don't have much more to offer in terms of commentary. And relatively little of substance is being said about Lincoln on his 200th birthday. Most of the activity centers around Mr. Darwin.

(It's also interesting that there are questions about the religious faiths of both men-- and some considerable wrestling to claim the men for various sides in that debate as well.)

Darwin's impact has been amazing as well. Whatever his motives and whatever the outcomes of his work-- then and now-- he contributed much and people today extrapolate much further.

So, over the next few days, I hope to blog at length on resources I've collected on Darwin over the past few months.

Enjoy!