A New Theory of Human Evolution, Sir Arthur Keith, 1948

Published in 1948, A New Theory of Human Evolution outlines Keith’s view that human development was shaped not only by natural selection but also by the structure and behavior of human groups. He proposed that early human evolution was driven by “in-group” loyalty and cooperation, contrasted by “out-group” hostility—a theory he called “group selection.” Keith argued that moral codes, religion, and social customs evolved to strengthen group unity and survival, even if they fostered conflict between communities. He presented evolution as a complex interplay of biology, culture, and social behavior. While later research would challenge many of his conclusions, the book remains a notable historical contribution to evolutionary thought.

Sir Arthur Keith (1866–1955) was a Scottish anatomist and anthropologist, born in Aberdeenshire. Educated at the University of Aberdeen and later at University College London, he became a prominent figure in the study of human evolution. He served as conservator of the Hunterian Museum at the Royal College of Surgeons and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society. Keith was known for his reconstructions of early human fossils and his interest in the relationship between anatomy and evolutionary theory. His interpretations, while influential in his time, often reflected the social and racial ideologies of the early 20th century.

A New Theory of Human Evolution, by Sir Arthur Keith.

Published by Watts & Co., London. 1948 first edition.

A good copy in a library hardback binding. Red cloth, browned to spine. Gilt titles to spine with library reference number. The cloth covers are rather worn and marked, with fraying to head of spine and bumping to tail and corners. Binding with a little bit of give.

Remains of library labels from 'Hendon Public Libraries' to first pastedown and first free endpaper. With 'Withdrawn' stamp and occasional ink stamp within. Some additional cloth strengthening after coloured free endpapers.

The text block in itself is in good condition with mild age toning and occasional minor flaw. Scattered pencil annotations to margins. Overall a very usable copy of a book that was originally produced to 'Book Production War Economy Standard' which was of relatively low-cost production methods at that time.

Text in English.

x + 451pp.

Dimensions: approximately 216mm tall x 150mm wide x 38mm deep.

Weight: approximately 640g (unpacked).