The question of human origin has always been disputed by evolution theorists. This book provides a comprehensive survey of the debates over human evolution from the time of Darwin to the 1940s. Part 1 discusses the early controversies, noting that they focused on philosophical issues rather than causes or details of the evolutionary process. A framework for the debate is outlined, considering evolution theory with race, culture and the progress of humankind. Part 2 describes various theories including the Neanderthal-Phase theory, the Presapiens theory, the Tarsioid theory, and Polytypic theories. Part 3 of the book deals with interpretations of the causes of human evolution. Arguments are presented which relate to the factors of brain expansion, upright posture and environment in the evolutionary process. Trends in human evolution are discussed, including convergence, Lamarckism, nonadaptive trends, and orthogenesis. The book ends with a review of arguments concerning Broom's (1933) question: The coming of man--was it accident or design? An extensive listing of references is provided in a bibliography and note section. (TW)