Phrenology and the Origins of Victorian Scientific Naturalism

The book reassesses the impact of phrenology, particularly George Combe's influential work, arguing that it significantly shaped Victorian scientific thought before Darwin's theories. It highlights how Combe's "The Constitution of Man in Relation to External Objects" not only outsold "The Origin of Species" but also laid the groundwork for Darwin's ideas. By focusing on Combe, the book uncovers overlooked aspects of Victorian naturalism, offering a more nuanced understanding of how Victorians perceived their relationship with nature.