Description
Book Synopsis: In this New York Times bestseller and longlist nominee for the National Book Award, “our greatest living chronicler of the natural world” (The New York Times), David Quammen explains how recent discoveries in molecular biology affect our understanding of evolution and life’s history. In the mid-1970s, scientists began using DNA sequences to reexamine the history of all life. Perhaps the most startling discovery to come out of this new field—the study of life’s diversity and relatedness at the molecular level—is horizontal gene transfer (HGT), or the movement of genes across species lines. It turns out that HGT has been widespread and important; we now know that roughly eight percent of the human genome arrived sideways by viral infection—a type of HGT. In The Tangled Tree, “the grandest tale in biology….David Quammen presents the science—and the scientists involved—with patience, candor, and flair” (Nature). We learn about the major players, such as Carl Woese, the most important little-known biologist of the twentieth century; Lynn Margulis, the notorious maverick whose wild ideas about “mosaic” creatures proved to be true; and Tsutomu Wantanabe, who discovered that the scourge of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a direct result of horizontal gene transfer, bringing the deep study of genome histories to bear on a global crisis in public health. “David Quammen proves to be an immensely well-informed guide to a complex story” (The Wall Street Journal). In The Tangled Tree, he explains how molecular studies of evolution have brought startling recognitions about the tangled tree of life—including where we humans fit upon it. Thanks to new technologies, we now have the ability to alter even our genetic composition—through sideways insertions, as nature has long been doing. “The Tangled Tree is a source of wonder….Quammen has written a deep and daring intellectual adventure” (The Boston Globe).
Details
Discover the secrets of life and evolution with The Tangled Tree: A Radical New History of Life. Written by acclaimed author David Quammen, this New York Times bestseller and National Book Award nominee explores how recent discoveries in molecular biology have revolutionized our understanding of life's history. With captivating prose and groundbreaking insights, Quammen reveals the astonishing world of horizontal gene transfer (HGT), where genes move across species lines. This phenomenon has been proven to have a significant impact on our very own human genome, with approximately eight percent being a result of viral infection through HGT. Prepare to be amazed by the grandest tale in biology, expertly presented with patience, candor, and flair by Quammen.
Join us on a thrilling journey through the intricate web of life, guided by the unsung heroes of the scientific community. Meet Carl Woese, the visionary biologist whose groundbreaking work laid the foundation for our understanding of the tree of life. Encounter Lynn Margulis, the audacious maverick whose controversial ideas about "mosaic" creatures eventually proved to be true. Explore the discoveries of Tsutomu Wantanabe, whose findings on horizontal gene transfer unveiled the terrifying truth behind antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In The Tangled Tree, Quammen brings these brilliant minds to life, shedding light on their pivotal contributions to our understanding of evolution.
Delve into the complex world of genetics, as Quammen skillfully explains how molecular studies have led to shocking revelations about the interconnectedness of all living beings. Gain a profound understanding of humanity's place in the immense tree of life, and embrace the awe-inspiring power of nature's evolutionary processes. Moreover, discover how recent technological advancements allow us to manipulate our own genetic composition, echoing the sideways insertions that have been occurring in nature for millennia. Explore the implications of these discoveries on the future of our species and the very essence of what it means to be human.
Don't miss out on this intellectual adventure that will leave you in awe of the world around us. The Tangled Tree is a source of wonder, offering deep insights into the marvels of evolution. Quammen's extensive knowledge and daring exploration of this complex topic have garnered praise from critics worldwide. Get your hands on this groundbreaking book and embark on a journey that will change the way you perceive life itself.
Ready to unravel the mysteries of life? Get your copy of The Tangled Tree: A Radical New History of Life here and embark on an intellectual adventure like no other.
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