Customer Reviews

Of Molecules and Men (Great Minds Series)

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Sir Francis Crick provides a clear, compact exploration of the shape, size, and significance of the gene, the molecular basis of all life. He begins his discussion asking for a definition of aliveness. Then he traces clearly the path to our present knowledge of how the gene is structured and points out that its existence is totally a product of Darwinian evolution. This means that the gene is not the product of a prior plan, but results from a series of accidents. He also believes that most of the elements making up the gene can either now, or soon will, synthesize genes.
He describes the position of several scientists who posit an invisible, purposeful substance or influence which cause life to exist within the gene, called vitalism. He is highly critical of this position as being based on wishful thinking, or an attempt to support a theological assumption.
Crick is a partner in the Watson-Crick team who first described the structure of the gene in the 1950s. Watson wrote a very controversial account of the "race" to discover the gene's structure in his book "The Double Helix."
"Of Molecules and Men" is a delightful read, elegant, sparce, and by a genuine authority. Itis a surprisingly brief and informative examination of what the gene is which is enlightening for any reader.
E.T. Dell, Jr. Peterborough, NH