Richard Dawkins. How A Scientist Changed The Way We Think

Cover Type: Hardcover
Book Condition: Fine
Jacket Condition: Fine
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Publisher Place: Uk
Publisher Year: 2006
Edition: First Edition

Description: 283 pages. Book and Jacket appear to have hardly been read and are both in Fine condition throughout.

Publishers Description: With the publication of the international bestseller The Selfish Gene some thirty years ago, Richard Dawkins powerfully captured a newly emerging way of understanding evolution--a genes eye view. Dawkins went on to publish five more bestselling books, including The Blind Watchmaker and Unweaving the Rainbow. He is one of the most high profile public intellectuals today and any attempt to understand the scientific view of the world must grapple with his ideas. Now, in this exciting collection of original essays, some of the worlds leading thinkers offer their take on how Dawkins has changed the way we think. Readers will find stimulating pieces by Daniel Dennett, the renowned philosopher of mind and author of Darwins Dangerous Idea; Steven Pinker, the brilliant Harvard linguist who wrote The Language Instinct and The Blank Slate; Matt Ridley, author of the bestselling Genome; and James Watson, who with Francis Crick discovered the structure of DNA, arguably the greatest scientific discovery of the last century. Dawkins widely admired literary style forms the subject of several pieces, including one from novelist Philip Pullman (author of the bestselling His Dark Materials trilogy). As one of the worlds best known rationalists, Dawkins stance on religion is another theme in this collection, explored by Simon Blackburn, Michael Ruse, Michael Shermer, and the Bishop of Oxford. Numbering twenty in all, these articles are not simply rosy tributes, but explore how Dawkins ideas have shaped thinking and public debate, and include elements of criticism as well as thoughtful praise. Richard Dawkins work has had the rare distinction of generating as much excitement outside the scientific community as within it. This stimulating volume is a superb summation of the depth and range of his influence. Industry Reviews An interesting series of essays. Philip Hensher, The Spectator A sparkling collection. Prospect This book presents a vivid picture of how one man, by force of rigorous analysis and clear writing, taught a generation of biologists how to think about evolution New York Times While such festschrifts are usually deadly dull, designed to flatter rather than enlighten, this is a delightful exception, containing a number of thought-provoking essays that go beyond mere appreciation of Dawkinss book. Jerry A. Coyne, Times Literary Supplement

ISBN: 9780199291168