Embryogenesis in Myth and Science [Paperback]

Embryology has evolved from myth in early cultures, who knew little about the details of conception and pregnancy, to the height of modern scientific knowledge. Thomas Weihs argues persuasively that new scientific understanding of embryology could engender a new mythology, and that, in fact, science and myth are complementary aspects of the study of new life.

He explores the correspondence between the creation story in Genesis, and other creation myths, with the development of the human embryo, and also discusses how the intuitive heart-felt values we associate with pregnancy and birth can be reconciled with the science of our age.

Looks at how science and mythology are both key aspects in the understanding of new human life.Thomas Weihs (1914-1983) studied medicine in Vienna and Basel before moving to Scotland to help found the Camphill Community for people with special needs.Foreword by John DavyIntroductionFrom Mythos to Science1. The story of creation2. A brief history of embryologyCurrent Thinking in Biology and Embryology3. Mendel and Darwin4. The beginnings of experimental embryology5. The discovery of genes6. The search for the origin of formFrom Science to Mythos7. Embryogenesis and Genesis8. Embryonic form development and cosmosBiology and Spirit9. Embryogenesis and the Gospels10. Form and individuality