Mystery of Life

Lawyer and lecturer Clarence Darrow and Dr. H. M. Parshley, Professor of Zoology at Smith College, discuss various theories supporting evolution: First shown are the simplest forms of life, from the amoeba to the sea anemone. Following are illustrations depicting the theory of evolution of the human species from fish, to reptiles, to birds and mammals, with an animated "Tree of Life" to underscore the argument. A discussion of fossils and rock strata is then made to compare the age of dinosaurs to present life. Mechanical reconstructions of various dinosaurs, including a pterodactyl and tyrannosaurus rex, are animated against a recreation of their contemporary environment. Further proof of evolution is found in an examination of German zoologist Ernest Haeckel's theory of embryology. To illustrate Haeckel's theory, the embryos of fish, turtles, birds, pigs, monkeys and a human are compared in early stages of development and reveal striking similarities. Scenes illustrating Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection and the fight for survival are then shown. In Dr. Parshley's laboratory in Northampton, Massachusetts, more proof of evolution is seen in the development of a new, better adapted species of mice. Darrow points out that although the ape and man had a common ancestor, each followed a different line of development, and this point is illustrated with pictures of all types of primates. Comparative anatomy and social evolution are described as other examples supporting the evolution theory. Finally, a discussion of the end of the earth and human life is pursued, supported by speculative illustrations and motion pictures.