In 'Sociobiology: The New Synthesis,' Edward O. Wilson defines sociobiology as the systematic study of the biological basis of all social behavior. The book explores how social behaviors in animals, including altruism, cooperation, and aggression, are shaped by natural selection and genetic factors. Wilson extends this analysis to humans in the final chapter, sparking significant controversy and debate about the role of biology in human social behavior. The book is a landmark in the field of evolutionary biology and has had a profound impact on the nature versus nurture debate and the development of evolutionary psychology[1][4][5].
In 'A Theory of Everyone,' Michael Muthukrishna presents a bold and original work that integrates research from across the sciences, humanities, and the field of cultural evolution. The book argues that human dominance is rooted in our unique ability to create and pass on culture—a shared body of knowledge, skills, and experiences. Muthukrishna proposes four 'laws of life'—energy, innovation, cooperation, and evolution—as essential for solving the practical and existential challenges facing humanity, such as polarization, inequality, productivity stagnation, and the energy crisis. The book is divided into two parts: the first explains 'who we are' and 'how we got here,' while the second explores practical policy solutions for our current predicament. Muthukrishna's approach is characterized by a scientific method, a wide range of academic research, and an engaging writing style that makes complex ideas accessible to readers[1][2][5].
In 'The Selfish Gene', Richard Dawkins presents a gene-centred view of evolution, arguing that genes are the primary units of selection and that they behave selfishly to ensure their own replication. The book explains concepts such as kin selection, inclusive fitness, and the evolutionarily stable strategy, highlighting how these mechanisms can lead to altruistic behaviors in organisms. Dawkins emphasizes that the 'selfishness' of genes is a metaphorical concept, describing their evolutionary consequences rather than any intentional behavior. The book has been influential in shaping modern evolutionary thought and remains relevant today[1][3][5].
This book is a blend of memoir, biography, and existential inquiry. Lulu Miller, struggling with personal crises, becomes fascinated with the life of David Starr Jordan, a 19th-century taxonomist who dedicated his life to categorizing fish. As Miller delves deeper into Jordan's story, she uncovers both admirable qualities and dark secrets, including his involvement in the eugenics movement. The book reflects on the human attempt to impose order on a chaotic world, the dangers of such endeavors, and the beauty found in embracing complexity and uncertainty.
In 'How Far the Light Reaches', Sabrina Imbler weaves together memoir and marine biology, drawing parallels between the lives of sea creatures and their own experiences as a queer, mixed-race writer. The book explores themes of adaptation, survival, and identity, offering a unique perspective on how marine life can inform human understanding of family, community, and care.
This biography chronicles the life of Marie Curie, a trailblazing scientist who won two Nobel Prizes for her groundbreaking work on radioactivity. Written by her daughter Ève Curie, the book provides an intimate look at Marie's life, from her childhood in Poland to her marriage with Pierre Curie and her later years as a widow and mother. It highlights her dedication to science and her legacy as a pioneering figure for women in science.
Books are the original medium for communicating science to the masses. In a holiday special, producer Kunal Patel asks Babbage’s family of correspondents about the books that have inspired them in their careers as science journalists.
Host: Alok Jha, The Economist’s science and technology editor. Contributors: Rachel Dobbs, The Economist’s climate correspondent; Kenneth Cukier, our deputy executive editor; The Economist’s Emilie Steinmark; Geoff Carr, our senior editor for science and technology; and Abby Bertics, The Economist’s science correspondent.
Reading list: “The Periodic Table” by Primo Levi; “When We Cease to Understand the World” by Benjamín Labatut; “A Theory of Everyone” by Michael Muthukrishna; “Madame Curie” by Ève Curie; “Sociobiology” by E. O. Wilson; “The Selfish Gene” by Richard Dawkins; “Why Fish Don't Exist” by Lulu Miller; and “How Far the Light Reaches” by Sabrina Imbler.
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