Conspiracy by Means of Natural, Selection by Sherman P. Bastarache, explores the intricate relationship between faith, reason, human nature, and societal constructs. The author decodes the psychological and evolutionary origins of belief systems, language, and cultural narratives. Using a mix of historical, anthropological, and scientific perspectives, the book delves into humanity’s journey from primal instincts to complex ideologies, ultimately examining how belief and reasoning have shaped human progress and conflict.

One aspect I found intriguing was the book’s deep dive into language as a tool of human cognition and social structure. Bastarache’s claim that language is deeply rooted in primal senses and shaped by evolutionary necessities was fascinating. For instance, the exploration of the etymology of “V” and its symbolic ties to creation myths was unexpected and cleverly analyzed. At times, the explanations felt a bit elaborate which occasionally made it challenging to follow the central ideas as clearly as I would have liked.

The book shines when discussing the perpetual tug-of-war between faith and reason. Bastarache argues that these two forces are not inherently opposing but are evolutionary adaptations meant to coexist. The use of religious and mythological anecdotes, such as the reinterpretation of the Genesis story, brings a fresh and creative perspective. At times, though, I think the arguments felt more exploratory than conclusive.

I appreciated Bastarache’s exploration of “belief-reasoning” as a natural evolutionary mechanism. The idea that humans evolved to rely on “held-as-true” concepts for survival resonates, especially when tied to modern phenomena like conspiracy theories. Some sections, like the extended focus on primal consciousness and nervous system entanglements, felt lengthy and occasionally wandered from the main narrative, but I appreciate the depth they added.

Conspiracy by Means of Natural Selection is an intellectual yet accessible read for those fascinated by human evolution, cognitive science, and philosophy. Its unique lens on faith, reason, and their intersection with societal myths makes it particularly suited for readers who enjoy critical thinking and interdisciplinary analysis. Its blend of speculation and scholarly insight makes it a stimulating addition to conversations about human nature and belief systems.

Pages: 334 | ISBN : 978-0992159436