To mark the occasion, the Milner Centre for Evolution invited distinguished paleontologist, Professor Michael Benton, to present its inaugural public Darwin Day lecture. Michael is a member of the School of Earth Sciences at the University of Bristol and a Royal Society Fellow.
Michael talked about 'Darwin, and why he is so often misunderstood' at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution (BRLSI). The audience was treated to an entertaining and accessible introduction to the many different evidences for evolution.
Following his lecture, Michael answered questions ranging from the role of selection during mass extinctions to the possible evolutionary impact of modern-day challenges such as climate change.
The lecture was very well attended with a diverse audience of public and academics.
Professor Laurence D. Hurst, Director of the Milner Centre for Evolution said, 'This was the first of what we hope to be many further Darwin Day public events.
'Our thanks go to BRLSI for not just hosting the event but also putting on a display of their invaluable Darwin collection.'
'We look forward to celebrating Darwin’s 208th birthday!'