author
Rudolf Schmid
1828–1907
A German Protestant theologian and church leader, he is best remembered for writing about the meeting point of science, philosophy, and Christian belief. His work on Darwin helped introduce English-speaking readers to one of the 19th century's major faith-and-science debates.
1 Audiobook
About the author
Born on January 17, 1828, in Altensteigdorf near Nagold, Rudolf von Schmid was a German evangelical theologian. He studied and worked within the Württemberg church, later serving in prominent roles in Stuttgart, including as court preacher, and was eventually honored with the title "von Schmid."
He wrote on theology, religion, and science, and became especially known for Die Darwin'schen Theorien und ihre Stellung zur Philosophie, Religion und Moral, a book that examined Darwin's ideas alongside philosophical and religious questions. The work was translated into English as The Theories of Darwin and Their Relation to Philosophy, Religion, and Morality, which helped extend his reach beyond Germany.
Schmid died on August 7, 1907, in Obersontheim. His writing reflects a moment when many readers were trying to understand how new scientific theories might challenge, reshape, or coexist with religious conviction.