Matt Ridley's 'Genome' offers a detailed analysis of the human genome, exploring its role in disease, behavior, and intelligence. The book delves into the scientific, philosophical, and moral implications of genetic mapping, from gene therapy to eugenics. By examining one gene from each chromosome, Ridley provides a narrative that spans the history of life and the future of medicine.
In 'The Rational Optimist', Matt Ridley presents a bold and provocative interpretation of economic history, arguing that the innate human tendency to trade goods and services, along with specialization, is the source of modern human civilization. The book covers the entire sweep of human history from the Stone Age to the Internet, highlighting how life is improving at an accelerating rate through increased food availability, income, and life span, while disease, child mortality, and violence are decreasing globally. Ridley emphasizes the role of free trade, individual rights, and innovation in enhancing human prosperity and natural biodiversity despite potential setbacks[2][4][5].
In this book, Matt Ridley presents a wide-ranging argument that evolution, rather than design, is the driving force behind many of the significant developments in human society, technology, and culture. He argues that change in these areas is incremental, gradual, and spontaneous, often resulting from the interactions of millions rather than the plans of a few. Ridley draws on evidence from science, economics, history, politics, and philosophy to demonstrate how bottom-up processes shape our world, from the evolution of the universe and morality to the development of technology and the internet. The book challenges conventional assumptions that major events and trends are dictated by those in positions of power, instead highlighting the role of emergent phenomena and natural selection in shaping our world[1][2][5].
In 'The Origins of Virtue', Matt Ridley delves into the evolution of human morality, arguing that cooperative instincts may have evolved as part of mankind's natural selfish behavior. He integrates findings from genetics, psychology, and anthropology to provide a comprehensive view of human relationships and societal development. The book challenges traditional views on altruism and cooperation, suggesting they stem from self-interest.
In 'How Innovation Works', Matt Ridley argues that innovation is a collective, collaborative, and gradual process that turns inventions into practical and affordable solutions. He emphasizes that innovation is distinct from invention and requires freedom to exchange, experiment, and fail. Ridley draws on numerous historical examples, from steam engines to search engines, to illustrate how innovation speeds up in some sectors and slows down in others. He also highlights the importance of trial and error, persistence, and the role of many individuals rather than solitary geniuses in the innovation process. The book underscores that innovation is crucial for modern prosperity and warns that it can be easily discouraged by political interference.
Naval 
