HumanistSG| The Darwin-Wallace story: from history to pop science mythology

Humanists celebrate Darwin Day to honour curiosity, evidence, and the scientific spirit that helps us better understand our world. We’re excited to welcome Dr John back as he revisits Darwin with a fascinating talk that separates myth from historical reality. In an age of fake news and AI-generated content, learning how stories are shaped, distorted, and believed has never been more important—for all of us.

Secular Assembly by Humanist Society Singapore is a monthly gathering of humanists, freethinkers, atheists, agnostics and other like-minded people.This month's Assembly is held in collaboration with Harmony in Diversity Gallery (HDG). Before the Assembly, there will be a optional 45mins tour of HDG.

Registration is required, please do so here at eventbrite. For more information and directions, visit https://humanist.org.sg/events/secular-assembly-feb-2026-darwin-wallace-story/

Speaker: Dr John van Wyhe (Historian of Science, Senior Lecturer at the National University of Singapore, and Director of Darwin Online https://darwin-online.org.uk/)

The story of Darwin and Wallace is often told as a tale of injustice, where Wallace was overshadowed by the more famous Darwin. However, this popular version only emerged in the late 20th century and is not supported by historical evidence. Recent research shows that the original account, accepted for over a century, was accurate and that Wallace was not treated unfairly. The myth persists because stories of overlooked outsiders resonate strongly with modern audiences. This reminds us how easily history can be reshaped to fit the values and emotions of different generations.

There will be: short sing alongs, a talk/sharing, community sharing of personal stories and experiences, moments for reflection and gratitude, and more.

Collaboration with Harmony in Diversity Gallery (HDG)The Harmony in Diversity Gallery (HDG) was developed by the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with community partners and organisations like the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO). The Gallery aims to promote an appreciation of Singapore’s rich religious diversity. It hopes this will foster a spirit of give and take, mutual respect and understanding, necessary to nurture and strengthen the religious peace and harmony we enjoy today.

Info: The Harmony in Diversity Gallery (HDG) was developed by the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with community partners and organisations like the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO). The Gallery aims to promote an appreciation of Singapore’s rich religious diversity. It hopes this will foster a spirit of give and take, mutual respect and understanding, necessary to nurture and strengthen the religious peace and harmony we enjoy today.

Info: We invite participants not attending the HDG gallery tour to bring their books to our open library / book exchange.

Info: During the Secular Assembly, there will be: short sing alongs, a short talk, sharing of personal stories, moments for reflection and gratitude, and more.

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