The Poetry of Reality with Richard Dawkins

A Conversation with Nick Gillespie in Milwaukee | Richard Dawkins' Final Tour

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Apr 30, 2025
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INSIGHT

Genetic Palimpsest Explained

  • Every animal’s genes and body carry a record of ancestral survival environments, like a manuscript reused over time.
  • This 'genetic palimpsest' concept shows deep evolutionary influences layered within organisms, not just superficial traits.
INSIGHT

Humans as Cooperating Viral Colonies

  • Humans are essentially a massive cooperative colony of genes, akin to cooperating viruses within us.
  • Parasites transmitted via gametes share interests with their hosts, illustrating gene cooperation within organisms.
INSIGHT

Selfish Genes Cooperate

  • Genes are selfish as replicators but cooperate to form altruistic individuals.
  • Cooperation among genes builds bodies that collectively aid their transmission to future generations.
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