The Tragic Legacy of Lysenkoism and Mao's Utopian Dreams

This chapter humorously juxtaposes personal anecdotes with a serious examination of Trofim Lysenko's detrimental agricultural practices and their impact, particularly in the Soviet Union and China. It explores Mao Zedong's ambitious plans for transforming China, revealing the consequences of his misguided reliance on Soviet theories and the absurdity of certain agricultural campaigns. The discussion emphasizes the dangers of ignoring empirical science in favor of ideology, showcasing how these reckless decisions have historically led to widespread suffering and famine.