The Century of the Gene
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With dust jacket. It's a well-cared-for item that has seen limited use. The item may show minor signs of wear. All the text is legible, with all pages included. It may have slight…
Book Summary
Evelyn Fox Keller's The Century of the Gene offers a concise, provocative history of genetics in the 20th century, arguing that the gene concept has outlived its usefulness. This used copy is in good condition with minor wear and possible highlighting. Ideal for readers interested in philosophy of biology and the future of genomic science.
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About The Century of the Gene
In The Century of the Gene, Evelyn Fox Keller examines how the gene became the central organizing concept of biology in the 1900s and why that concept may now be obsolete. She traces the shift from classical genetics to molecular biology and genomics, showing how discoveries like alternative splicing, epigenetic inheritance, and the complexity of gene regulation have undermined the simple notion of a gene as a discrete unit of heredity. Keller argues that the language of genes persists partly for historical and cultural reasons, even as the science has moved beyond it. This concise, accessible book is both a history and a philosophical critique, urging a rethinking of how we describe biological information. The used copy described here is well cared for, with all pages legible and only minor signs of wear.
Who should read The Century of the Gene?
This book is for readers interested in the history and philosophy of science, especially genetics and molecular biology. It suits biology students, researchers, and educators who want a critical perspective on the gene concept. It is also valuable for science writers, historians, and anyone curious about how scientific ideas evolve. General readers with some background in biology will find it accessible and thought-provoking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Concise and clearly written, accessible to non-specialists
- ✓ Offers a critical, philosophical perspective on genetics
- ✓ Authored by a respected historian and philosopher of science
- ✓ Provides historical context for modern genomics debates
- ✓ Used copy is in good condition with all pages legible
Cons
- ✗ Assumes some familiarity with basic genetics
- ✗ May be too philosophical for readers seeking pure science
- ✗ Some sections feel repetitive
- ✗ Does not cover the latest genomic technologies
- ✗ Used copy may contain markings or highlighting
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Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for beginners in genetics?
It is accessible but assumes some basic knowledge of biology. Beginners may need a companion introductory text.
What condition is this used copy in?
The description states it is well cared for with limited use, minor wear, all pages legible, and possible slight markings or highlighting.
Does the book cover modern genomics?
It discusses genomics up to the early 2000s but does not include the latest technologies like CRISPR.
Is this a textbook or a trade book?
It is a scholarly trade book aimed at a general audience interested in science, not a textbook with exercises.
Who is the author?
Evelyn Fox Keller was a professor of history and philosophy of science at MIT, known for her work on gender and science.
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