Understanding Genes

An accessible but rigorous introduction to genes for non-experts, explaining what genes are and what they can and cannot do.

Kostas Kampourakis (Author)

9781108835473, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 4 November 2021

230 pages
18.4 x 13.2 x 1.5 cm, 0.33 kg

'This book provides a good current primer on the field and can serve as a starting point for educators in characterizing the misconceptions that students have and organizing content that addresses these issues.' John R. True, The Quarterly Review of Biology

What are genes? What do genes do? These questions are not simple and straightforward to answer; at the same time, simplistic answers are quite prevalent and are taken for granted. This book aims to explain the origin of the gene concept, its various meanings both within and outside science, as well as to debunk the intuitive view of the existence of 'genes for' characteristics and disease. Drawing on contemporary research in genetics and genomics, as well as on ideas from history of science, philosophy of science, psychology and science education, it explains what genes are and what they can and cannot do. By presenting complex concepts and research in a comprehensible and rigorous manner, it examines the potential impact of research in genetics and genomics and how important genes actually are for our lives. Understanding Genes is an accessible and engaging introduction to genes for any interested reader.

1. The Public Image of Genes
2. The Origin and Evolution of the Gene Concept
3. The Devolution of the Gene Concept
4. There are No 'Genes For' Characteristics or Disease
5. What Genes 'Do'
6. The Dethronement of Genes.

Subject Areas: Genetics [non-medical PSAK], Biology, life sciences [PS], Popular science [PDZ], History of science [PDX], Philosophy of science [PDA]