The Outer Reaches of Life

An exploration of the world of microbes, and what it reveals about the origin and evolution of life.

John R. Postgate (Author)

9780521558730, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 28 September 1995

292 pages, 18 b/w illus.
21.6 x 13.6 x 2.1 cm, 0.32 kg

'Top class popular scientific writing.' Science and Public Affairs

The invisible world of microbes - capable of surviving in the most harsh and inhospitable conditions on earth - reveals the remarkable potential and resilience of life itself. John Postgate's fascinating exploration of these outer reaches of life shows how understanding microbes can provide new clues to the origin and evolution of terrestrial life, and offers glimpses of how life might have established itself elsewhere in the universe. In the process, it raises profound questions about death, sensation and individuality, and insights into the nature of scientific progress. The feats of modern biotechnology are just one manifestation of the astonishing resources of microbes illuminated in John Postgate's lucid and intriguing account.

1. Microbes and terrestrial life
2. Some like it hot
3. Cool, man, cool
4. The big squeeze
5. A salty tale
6. Corrosive and slippery places
7. Life without oxygen
8. Living on minerals
9. Exotic menus
10. Of wraiths and ghosts
11. The inertness of nitrogen
12. Getting about
13. Microsenses
14. A private space
15. Company
16. Immortality and the Big Sleep
17. Self-adjustment
18. Life's outer reaches.

Subject Areas: Microbiology [non-medical PSG]