A. Michael Keith

Evolution: the Novel A. Michael Keith

Evolution: The Novel shows how the religions of the world express the growing relationship between the recently evolved neocortex and the ancient brain that preceded it. Religions and all culture are secondary evolution as humanity learns how to use this forebrain. It's common sense that evolution was not discovered by Darwin and Wallace. Humanity has always been at work on the concept, and one of its names is religion.

Religious themes must include a confrontation with evil, and this story tracks the protagonist through the Southwest as thousands of perverts follow and slander him, giving him an education in human nature he would rather not have. This "monkey troop" behavior fits well with the topic of evolution. While this book could be described as "homophobic," gay readers will find this controversial story interesting. The debate of science versus intelligent design is touched on as the existential nature of fiction makes it an excellent mode in which to address this and other subjects.

Included is a look at psychology's concept of the unconscious brain from the viewpoint of evolution. For instance, survival of the fittest does not explain the human journey up through time. The human species was already surviving well enough a million years ago and didn't need this incredible brain to simply survive. The human neocortex grew "far in advance of our ability to use it," and the unconscious original brain sponsored this phenomenal growth to help itself come into existence. The ancient brain needs a more conscious companion to help create the cultures and civilizations that express its nature.