Genetics and Philosophy
An Introduction

This book integrates the work of philosophers of science seeking to make sense of genetics with an accessible introduction to the science.

Paul Griffiths (Author), Karola Stotz (Author)

9780521173902, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 18 April 2013

280 pages, 18 b/w illus. 3 tables
24.1 x 17.3 x 1.5 cm, 0.52 kg

'This book is intended as an introduction to philosophical issues raised by genetics. One of its many strengths is that it construes genetics very broadly to include all of heredity, including genomics. The range of topics covered is admirable; all standard themes in the philosophy of genetics are treated at an introductory level - reductionism, genetic information, heritability, adaptationism, and so forth.' Sahotra Sarkar, Isis

In the past century, nearly all of the biological sciences have been directly affected by discoveries and developments in genetics, a fast-evolving subject with important theoretical dimensions. In this rich and accessible book, Paul Griffiths and Karola Stotz show how the concept of the gene has evolved and diversified across the many fields that make up modern biology. By examining the molecular biology of the 'environment', they situate genetics in the developmental biology of whole organisms, and reveal how the molecular biosciences have undermined the nature/nurture distinction. Their discussion gives full weight to the revolutionary impacts of molecular biology, while rejecting 'genocentrism' and 'reductionism', and brings the topic right up to date with the philosophical implications of the most recent developments in genetics. Their book will be invaluable for those studying the philosophy of biology, genetics and other life sciences.

1. Mendel's gene
2. The physical gene
3. The behavioural gene
4. The reactive genome
5. Outside the gene
6. The informational gene
7. The evolving gene.

Subject Areas: Genetics [non-medical PSAK], Life sciences: general issues [PSA], Biology, life sciences [PS], Philosophy of science [PDA], Science: general issues [PD], Philosophy [HP]