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Improbable Destinies
How Predictable is Evolution?
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Check link for latest rating. ( 1,369 ratings, 170 reviews)
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Description
A dazzling tour of evolution in action that sheds light on one of the greatest debates in science.
The natural world is full of fascinating instances of convergence—phenomena like eyes and wings and tree-climbing lizards that have evolved independently, multiple times. Convergence suggests that evolution is predictable, and if we could replay the tape of life, we would get the same outcome. But there are also many examples of contingency, cases where the tiniest change—a random mutation or an ancient butterfly sneeze—caused evolution to take a completely different course.
In Improbable Destinies, renowned researcher Jonathan Losos reveals what the latest breakthroughs in evolutionary biology tell us about one of the greatest ongoing debates in science. Evolution can occur far more rapidly than Darwin expected, which has opened the door to something that was previously thought impossible—experimental studies of evolution in nature. Drawing on his own work with anole lizards on the Caribbean islands, as well as studies of guppies, foxes, field mice, and others being conducted around the world, Losos reveals just how rapid and predictable evolution can be.
By charting the discoveries of the scientists who are rewriting our understanding of evolutionary biology, Improbable Destinies will change the way we think and talk about evolution.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Improbable Destinies by Jonathan Losos is highly praised for its engaging writing and thought-provoking exploration of evolutionary biology. Reviewers appreciate Losos’s ability to present complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner, providing a fascinating glimpse into the predictability and contingencies of evolution. The book is noted for its insightful storytelling, featuring intriguing research and anecdotes that captivate both scientific and general audiences.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780141981192
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 09 August 2018
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd
Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 22.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 283g
Pages: 384
About the Author
Jonathan B. Losos is the Monique and Philip Lehner Professor for the Study of Latin America and Professor of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University. He is the recipient of a number of awards, including the Theodosius Dobzhansky Prize from the Society for the Study of Evolution and the David Starr Jordan Prize from the American Society of Naturalists.
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