It is one of life's mysteries that, if our genes are truly selfish, then we - and complex organisms like us - should be heading for genetic mutational meltdown. But, so far, we aren't. Comparing the process to the guiding influence of a kindly demon, Ridley demonstrates how, as life has become more complex, it has developed its own methods for avoiding genetic error and for cajoling those selfish genes into co-operating within cells and whole organisms. He tackles this genetic conundrum with his usual literary style, wit and a profound knowledge of his subject (be warned - there are 60 pages of notes and index at the back), and, as Richard Dawkins points out, he 'also has a rare knack of being right'. (Kirkus UK)
Product Description
The existence of complex life is one of the great mysteries of evolution, for complexity is neither inevitable nor necessary. This book shows how two major biological hurdles had to be overcome to allow living complexity to evolve - gene copying errors and natural selection.
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