The Concept of the Gene in Development and Evolution: Historical and Epistemological Perspectives

Cambridge Studies in Philosophy and Biology

by Peter J. Beurton (Editor), Raphael Falk (Editor), Hans-Jörg Rheinberger (Editor)

Advances in molecular biological research in the past forty years have made the story of the gene vastly complicated: the more we learn about genes, the less sure we are of what a gene really is. Knowledge about the structure and functioning of genes abounds, but the gene has also become curiously intangible. This collection of essays renews the question: what are genes? This book is unique in that it is the first interdisciplinary volume, written by philosophers, historians, and working scientists, solely devoted to the quest for the gene. It will be of interest to professionals and students in the philosophy and history of science, genetics, and molecular biology.

Genres: Genetics, Biology, Philosophy

404 pages, Hardcover

First published May 29, 2000

Reviews

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a collection of essays covering the development of the concept of the gene from Gregor Mendel through the early 21th century. The essays focus on historical developments and the philosophical, especially epistemological implications and problems. I found these essays helpful for reviewing the historical and philosophical developments, especially in the light of current genomics and genetics/genomics research in relation to ecology and behavior. I also found the book useful for connecting basic research with the big questions in the biological sciences and with epistemology.