The Right Darwin?

The common assumption that Darwinism and conservatism are mutually inconsistent is now fiercely debated on the right. A number of conservative thinkers argue that evolutionary biology can replace religion as the source of morality while scientifically confirming conservative public policy. Illuminating this crucial but confusing debate, a new book by Carson Holloway explains why Darwinian conservatism is both illusory and dangerous.

Consulting the great philosopher of democratic conservatism, Alexis de Tocqueville, Holloway asks whether religion is necessary for a healthy democracy and probes the possibility of a Darwinian alternative. He concludes that Darwinian conservatism, and Darwinism generally, cannot sustain respect for human rights or provide for the stability of the family and society. In the face of Darwinism’s moral failure, religion remains an essential support for a decent and free democracy.