Sherman P. Bastarache adopts a radically different approach to the problems that beset our society with his work Conspiracy by Means of Natural Selection. He dissects almost every aspect of the evolution of humankind in terms of natural selection, the process whereby the fittest members of a species learn to survive. Others then follow their example. He examines the creation of both humans and various other life forms such as primates, charting their development, making comparisons, and drawing interesting conclusions. The author points out that the clash between faith and reason has potentially fatal flaws that could result in our destruction. He analyses how knowledge and thus our belief systems came into being, asking if the human condition makes sense and whether we can believe what we have been taught. The role of women and their unfair relegation to an inferior place in society through the ages is a major theme whose history can be traced back to the biblical fall from grace. Reproduction and motherhood is a related topic. As would be expected, Darwin’s theory of evolution receives some prominence, as do the views of philosophers, sages, and academics. He concludes that evolution is derived from natural selection, driving belief and thus reason.

Conspiracy by Means of Natural Selection is not a conventional work. It is not about alien intervention or a one-world government but instead addresses relevant daily issues. Sherman P. Bastarache evaluates the subject matter using a combination of mythology, religion, anthropology, science, medicine, neurology, linguistics, philosophy, and politics to highlight the diversity of beliefs humans have developed over the millennia. Much of the knowledge acquired has become polluted by social norms, religion, politics, and fake news. The author explains the workings of the mind and how it is influenced by perception and interaction. He leads readers into a labyrinth of exploration into the human psyche. The text is technical in places, crammed full of information and examples. The author himself acknowledges that his views may ruffle a few feathers. The average reader may struggle with some concepts, but they should draw their own conclusions. The book has been thoroughly researched and a list of citations and references is provided, along with definitions of some of the terms used. This book will challenge the reader as it is detailed and complex and should be read with an open mind.