The Arrival of the Fittest

Exploring the early twentieth century, the book delves into how various communities embraced emerging theories of heredity, particularly Hugo de Vries's mutation theory. Influential figures, including science fiction writers and social reformers, envisioned rapid and controllable evolution, leading to the creation of "biotopias." This imaginative exploration shaped public perceptions of biology, influencing notable works from Brave New World to X-Men. The narrative highlights both the innovative and cautionary aspects of this era's ideas, offering valuable lessons for contemporary society.