The Genomic Revolution: Unveiling the Unity of Life [Hardcover]

Rob DeSalle (Editor), Michael Yudell (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 15, 2002

From the discoveries of Watson and Crick to the appearance of Dolly the Sheep, the last fifty years have ushered in a revolution of knowledge in how organisms develop, function, and replicate. Scientists are now engaged in an epic task that will catapult the revolution to new heights: the sequencing of the human genome. Consider the scope of such a discovery. How different are we from one another? Does race have a scientific meaning? Is there such a thing as a disease gene? What are the potential risks of genetically modified food? Does a clone have a soul? The Human Genome Project will inevitably lead to landmark changes in medicine, agriculture, and the study of evolution and will ultimately define the course of human history. "The Genomic Revolution: Unveiling the Unity of Life" takes readers on a fascinating journey through genomics - from the basic presentation of ideas about heredity through the essential principles of molecular biology, including an exploration of the ethical implications of the genome project for individuals and society. Some of the worlds leading experts in genomics, Harold Varmus, Leroy Hood, Daniel Kevles, and Craig Venter, to name just a few, contribute their assessments of the state of current scientific research. Written for anyone wondering why we are the way we are, "The Genomic Revolution" is a timely and important collection that spans the science, the promise, and the potential pitfalls of a field moving so quickly that its achievements may alternately delight and trouble us, but almost always surprise us.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"...gives you some impressively concise and relevant hints about where these things are likely to be heading..." -- Focus, February 1, 2003

"I would recommend it as a gift...to give family and friends in the interest of promoting public knowledge." -- Nature Medicine, January 2003

"The essays are well written and accessible to almost anyone interested in the areas represented." -- Choice, March 2003

About the Author

Rob DeSalle and Michael Yudell, Editors

Product Details

• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Joseph Henry Press; 1st edition (July 15, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0309074363
• ISBN-13: 978-0309074360
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,057,267 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)