Darwin Day
By politics.co.uk staff
Today is Darwin Day, the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin’s birth, and events are occurring across the UK to celebrate his life and work.
Secularists, atheists and scientists are hoping this year, which also sees the 150th anniversary of the publication of his seminal text Origin of the Species, will see a resurgence of interest in the Victorian biologist.
The celebrations also come as secular groups try to increase public awareness of their presence.
Celebratory events are occurring worldwide, but the focus is on Britain, where Darwin was born.
A demonstration ‘for a secular Europe’ is taking place outside the Natural History Museum in London at 14:00 GMT.
The National Secular society is holding a three course lunch, along with a reconstruction of the famous debate between Thomas Huxley and the Bishop of Oxford at the Royal Society. The event will also include the presentation of a £5,000 prize for ‘Secularist of the Year’.
Professor Sir David King will deliver the Darwin Day lecture at Conway Hall in Red Lion Square.
