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This book uses evolution as the unifying theme to trace the connections between levels of biological complexity from genes through nervous systems, animal societies, and human cultures. It examines the history of evolutionary theory from Darwin to the present, including: the impact of molecular biology and the emergence of evolutionary social theory.
FOUNDATIONS. Why Study Biology? Charles Darwin and the Origins of Evolutionary Theory. Cells and the Molecules of Life. Genetic Continuity and Change: Organisms, Environments, and Microevolution. After Darwin: Molecular Evolution, Selection, and Adaptation. Evolutionary Social Theory. EVOLUTION IN ACTION. The Success of Social Insects. Parasites, Hosts, and the Evolutionary Warfare of Infectious Disease. THE BIOLOGY OF BEHAVIOR. Nervous Systems Generate Behavior. Individual Organisms are the Product of Development. Behavior as Phenotype. OUR PLACE IN NATURE. The Physical Record of Human Origins. Exploring Our Behavioral Heritage. Viewing Human Cultures in an Evolutionary Context. Bibliography. Credits. Index.
This is a well written and illustrated introduction to modern biology, notably thorough and useful in the way it builds upon evolutionary explanation. --Edward O. Wilson, Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University "An excellent introduction to a body of knowledge and concepts that should be mastered by every educated person." --Steven Pinker, Massachusetts Institute of Technology "The explanations of many difficult concepts are the best Ia ve seen." --Donald Kennedy, Standford University "Truly a pleasure to read...The authors have a real knack for style and ease of expression... The concepts and ideas are clearly stated, well developed, and easily understood." --Charles Mallery, University of Miami "This is a remarkable book." --Martin Daley, McMaster University "This is a superb book - highly engaging, extremely well written, and well stocked with fascinating information." --David M. Buss, University of Texas -- Austin
