Vital Question: Energy, Evolution, and the Origins of Complex Life

Name: Vital Question: Energy, Evolution, and the Origins of Complex Life
Price: 10.49 USD
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Rating: 4.6 (1085 reviews)

4.6 of 5 Stars: Basic Sciences - Vital Question: Energy, Evolution, and the Origins of Complex Life

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Book Synopsis: “One of the deepest, most illuminating books about the history of life to have been published in recent years.” –The Economist

The Earth teems with life: in its oceans, forests, skies and cities. Yet there’s a black hole at the heart of biology. We do not know why complex life is the way it is, or, for that matter, how life first began. In The Vital Question, award-winning author and biochemist Nick Lane radically reframes evolutionary history, putting forward a solution to conundrums that have puzzled generations of scientists.

For two and a half billion years, from the very origins of life, single-celled organisms such as bacteria evolved without changing their basic form. Then, on just one occasion in four billion years, they made the jump to complexity. All complex life, from mushrooms to man, shares puzzling features, such as sex, which are unknown in bacteria. How and why did this radical transformation happen?

The answer, Lane argues, lies in energy: all life on Earth lives off a voltage with the strength of a lightning bolt. Building on the pillars of evolutionary theory, Lane’s hypothesis draws on cutting-edge research into the link between energy and cell biology, in order to deliver a compelling account of evolution from the very origins of life to the emergence of multicellular organisms, while offering deep insights into our own lives and deaths.

Both rigorous and enchanting, The Vital Question provides a solution to life’s vital question: why are we as we are, and indeed, why are we here at all? 37 illustrations Read more

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Discover the answers to life's greatest mysteries with "The Vital Question: Energy, Evolution, and the Origins of Complex Life." This groundbreaking book by award-winning author and biochemist Nick Lane will take you on a journey through the history of life on Earth, delving into the origins and complexities of life itself.

With its captivating storytelling and insightful perspectives, "The Vital Question" has been hailed as one of the most illuminating books about the history of life in recent years. The Economist describes it as a deep exploration of the black hole at the heart of biology, offering solutions to conundrums that have puzzled generations of scientists.

What sets this book apart is Lane's revolutionary hypothesis that links energy and evolution. He reveals how all life on Earth is powered by a voltage as strong as a lightning bolt, providing a compelling account of how single-celled organisms evolved into complex life forms. From bacteria to mushrooms and even humans, Lane uncovers the mysteries behind shared features like sex that were previously unknown to bacteria.

Prepare to be captivated by the synergy of evolutionary theory and cutting-edge research into the energy-cell biology connection. "The Vital Question" not only answers why complex life exists, but it also offers deep insights into our own lives and ultimately, our purpose on this planet.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to delve into the depths of life's origins and complexities. Read "The Vital Question" today and discover why we are as we are. Embrace the journey we all share, and unlock the vitality that awaits. Get your copy now.

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