Is Darwin's theory of evolution really the settled fact experts insist it is? Johnson, a Berkeley law professor specializing in logic, dissects Darwinism's scientific support and finds it woefully short on logic and severely lacking in confirmatory evidence. This rigorous---yet readable!---book is a great introduction to the controversy over evolution. 195 pages, softcover from InterVarsity.

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Reviewed by Rob (Nacogdoches TX), July 12, 2007

In 1993, although it was not a big issue for me, I had no reason to doubt the received wisdom from the scientific community concerning evolution and our origins. Evolution seemed to make the most sense based on my limited knowledge of the evidence. I went to a conference with Phillip Johnson as speaker, and the scales fell from my eyes. Darwin on Trial was the very first book I read of Johnson's and I would highly recommend it as an accessible treatment, presenting in a compelling way the the most serious evidentiary problems with "evolution." Rather than being some kind of disqualifier, Johnson's background as a law professor (and an extremely distinguished one at that) makes him the perfect foil. He demonstrates the tactics of obfuscation and semantic trickery that evolution's proponents are forced to use in propping up their increasingly tottery edifice. I've bought most of the books that Johnson has written, including the excellent "Reason in the Balance."

Reviewed by J (Woodbridge, VA), November 28, 2004

Absolutely superb treatment. Those who do not agree with Johnson seem to try to attack him, or present vague objections. I never see any attempt to refute Johnson's thesis. An excellent book which I will present as a Christmas present to those who may not have thought about the subject but only know what was pushed on us as kids. Recommend this book highly.

Reviewed by Richard Johnson (Litchfield, MN), January 22, 2002

A book that exposes those opposed to academic freedom for what they are. Indoctrinators of children who attempt to prevent opposing scientific evidence from being heard and those opposed to the Constitutional Right of Freedom of Speech. It exposed Darwinian evolution for what it is. A philosophy without scientific foundation, that masquerades as science. Dr Johnson points out that for a subject to be scientific in nature it must be exposed to the process of falsification. Something Darwinian evolutionist is unwilling to allow. Academic freedom is what is at stake. The Darwinists attempt to hide the vast lack of scientific evidence by first hiding behind their strategy of defining the conflict as an issue between religion and science. Thereby concealing the real problem, which is lack of scientific evidence to support their philosophy. Darwin on Trial is a great book that should be read by everyone who believes that truth and academic freedom matter.

Reviewed by George (St. Petersburg, Fl.), December 22, 2001

Johnson's book is a very good, though partial, example of how to cause doubt as to another's argument in making the most of factual ignorance or incomprehension of a jury (you and me). Try watching a couple of episodes of "The Practice" for other examples! Consequently, via sophistry, he uses mass ignorance of biological evolution's complete and mature presentation, as well as American religious fervour, rather than logic or actual evidence against it. Secondly, his specific form of argumentation needs to be labeled for what it actually is: a good example of ancient sophistry in the demonstration of how to win arguments rather than discover truth. Notice, unlike the principled "Matlock" or "Perry Mason," he NEVER offers alternative explanations. For, as every lawyer knows, the BEST explanation (given the evidence)is the correct one for any jury. And unfortunately for him in this case, no viable alternative to biological evolution exists as a conclusion. Thus, he smartly makes use of the fact that no judge is present here in forcing his hand in the matter. As such, he can get away with offering only a half-argument. And, who's the wiser?(Note this tendency and the above principles in 95% of special creationist literature if even serious material at all). As a result, Johnson's work results in purely unscientific speculation and rhetorical reaching, that is, if not actually lamentable religious propaganda. For a much more objective, comprehensive, scholarly, and honest work by a Christian consider Kenneth Miller's "Finding Darwin's God." You owe this to yourself whether or not you choose to read Johnson's book.

Reviewed by Larry Price Jr. (Shrewbury PA), August 21, 2001

This book is a MUST read for anyone with an interest in the truth about evolution. Johnson, a leader in the intelligent design movement, brings a devastating blow against the theory of evolution. Johnson does an excellent job of helping readers to see what "evidence" there really is for evolution. With his background in Law, he probes the supposed "Facts" of evolution , with dogged tenacity, helping us to see what true facts there are. Johnson points out the arrogance of evolutionists who believe that the only place suitable for discussion of evolution, is in their hallowed halls of academia. Anyone can examine the evidence for evolution and make an informed decision, a correct decision. Evolutionist's are often quick to point out that Johnson and other authors who attack evolution, have presuppositions, that many of them believe in God. Johnson, openly admits this in the beginning of his book, he then does the evolutionists the return favor of pointing out their own presupposition,materialism. Johnson shows throughout this whole book that this philosophy that many scientists adhere to, is constantly affecting their interpretation of the "evidence" for evolution. Read this book, I cannot recommend it enough, and when you are finished , ask yourself what your verdict on evolution is. To read more about the presuppositions that evolutionists have, read "Darwins God" by Cornelius Hunter, also recommended is "Darwins Black Box" by (scientist) Michael Behe. Finally to see some excellent articles by Scientists who reject the theory of evolution, go to www.trueorigin.org

Reviewed by Jon (Pomona, CA), March 06, 2001

Yeah, ANOTHER book criticizing evolution written by a non-scientist doing so via a somewhat refined rehashing of antiquated and uninformed arguments. Can such REALLY be convincing unless another already shares Johnson's assumptions? Probably not. Nonetheless, it is a worthwhile read IF balanced by "Science on Trial: The Case for Evolution" by Futuyama. Then, you may more intelligently decide. Less help but still effective and available at this site is "Finding Darwin's God" by Kenneth Miller.

Reviewed by Miguel Demelli (Miami, FL), October 19, 2000

This may be the best book on Darwinism out there. It absolutely does dissect the whole issue, and blows it out of the water! All is shown thoroughly yet with simplicity. No one can possibly believe evolution after reading this insightful and logical work! The world needs to hear this truth. I'd call this book a classic in the subject, and do so not lightly!

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