Edward Wilson’s The Future of Life was made possible because of the research of two scientists before Wilson’s time, Henry Thoreau and Charles Darwin. Darwin is best known for his theories of evolution and survival of the fittest, while Thoreau is best known for his solitude life and his opinion of civil disobedience. There is a common bond that ties these three scientists together though…their love and interest in the environment.
The way each scientist found and presented their work to society shows how much history and science has changed. When Darwin presented his theory of evolution, most of society rejected the idea because it conflicted with their religions and beliefs. However, because of this theory, many other scientists have been able to work on that theory and discover their own findings. Thoreau wrote about the importance of the environment and experience living at Walden Pond. Both of these men were a great inspiration and influence on Edward Wilson and his research.
Wilson knows much more about the environment now and what the future may hold then Darwin or Thoreau. Nevertheless, they each are like a chain-Wilson studying Thoreau, Thoreau studying Darwin. Without one, the other’s findings could not exist. Another connection they each have is that they all inspired others and may indirectly cause a difference for our future.

