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From Darwin to Derrida: Selfish Genes, Social Selves, and the Meanings of Life (Mit Press),Used
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How the meaningless process of natural selection produces purposeful beings who find meaning in the world.In From Darwin to Derrida, evolutionary biologist David Haig explains how a physical world of matter in motion gave rise to a living world of purpose and meaning. Natural selection, a process without purpose, gives rise to purposeful beings who find meaning in the world. The key to this, Haig proposes, is the origin of mutable textsgenesthat preserve a record of what has worked in the world. These texts become the specifications for the intricate mechanisms of living beings.Haig draws on a wide range of sourcesfrom Laurence Sterne's Tristram Shandy to Immanuel Kant's Critique of the Power of Judgment to the work of Jacques Derrida to the latest findings on gene transmission, duplication, and expressionto make his argument. Genes and their effects, he explains, are like eggs and chickens. Eggs exist for the sake of becoming chickens and chickens for the sake of laying eggs. A gene's effects have a causal role in determining which genes are copied. A gene (considered as a lineage of material copies) persists if its lineage has been consistently associated with survival and reproduction. Organisms can be understood as interpreters that link information from the environment to meaningful action in the environment. Meaning, Haig argues, is the output of a process of interpretation; there is a continuum from the very simplest forms of interpretation, instantiated in single RNA molecules near the origins of life, to the most sophisticated. Life is interpretationthe use of information in choice.
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- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: This book has five hundred twelve pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of evolutionary biology and meaning.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures five point sixty-three inches in length, eight point thirty-one inches in height, and one point zero seven inches in width.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is bound in hardcover. This ensures durability and a premium feel for readers.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of this book is David Haig, an evolutionary biologist known for his insights on natural selection.
- Q: What is the genre of this book? A: This book falls under the Biomedical Engineering genre. It discusses the intersection of biology and philosophical meaning.
- Q: How do I read this book? A: You can read this book like any other. It is suitable for anyone interested in evolutionary biology and philosophy.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in biology? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners. It presents complex ideas in an accessible manner.
- Q: What is the reading level for this book? A: The reading level is aimed at adults and advanced students. It covers sophisticated concepts in biology and philosophy.
- Q: Can I use this book for academic purposes? A: Yes, this book is suitable for academic use. It references various philosophical texts and scientific findings.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: Store this book in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight to preserve the cover and pages.
- Q: How do I clean this book? A: To clean this book, gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use water or cleaners.
- Q: Is this book safe for young readers? A: No, this book is not specifically intended for young readers. It deals with complex adult themes.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact customer support for a return or exchange. Keep all packaging for reference.
- Q: Does this book come with a warranty? A: No, this book does not come with a warranty. However, customer support can assist with any issues.
- Q: What topics are covered in this book? A: This book covers topics related to natural selection, meaning in life, and evolutionary biology. It blends science with philosophy.