The Selfish Gene question

I am certainly not a scientific mind (unfortunately, I'm an arts major), and I found this book to be EXTREMELY readable. I think he wrote it for a lay population. He actually makes genetic and evolutionary theroy entertaining!

I agree with biggest part of most comments. If you have desire for knowing, "The selfish gene" is a roof and you won't be able to understand very important things (going higher) if you do not read it (break the roof :) )
Take your time in reading it.

I had only a tiny bit of biology from school under my belt, several years out of date, when I read this book. I didn't even need that really. He explains quite complex concepts very simply (made me feel very intelligent!) and uses lots of anecdotes and a very relaxed writing style.

It's up to you when you read it. I think the most difficult concept you'll have to deal with is what to do with the philosophical consequences of the knowledge you get from it. But that doesn't need you to be older, better informed or better read.

So - hope you like it! And if you're anything like me, you may want to read Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged afterwards...

:)

I'd agree with the previous two responses, definitely a worthwhile read and relatively easy to follow, given his excellent anecdotal style. I read it just after Dawkins' "The Blindwatch Maker" and I think they really complemented each other well - although I wish I'd read Selfish Gene first.

This book might shatter all our previous myths. Please beware, at your age, lest you might get depressed or enlightened - both extremes you may face.

Read it for the concept, but I wouldn't recommend Dawkin's latest offerings - he has a tendency to repeat what he writes in an obnoxious, condescending manner that put me off.

a conceptual understanding of molecular biology and biochemistry along with some thermodynamics might be a good start. i know its not going to be quick though.