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About this book
This important volume examines the mechanism and action of natural selection in evolution. The author also offers his own synthesis of modern evolutionary theory.
Contents
A philosophical position; The gene as a unit of selection; Clade selection and macroevolution; Levels of selection among interactors; Optimization and kindred concepts; Historicity and constraint; Diversity within and between clades; Some recent controversies; Statis; Other challenges and anomalies; Bibliography; Appendix.
Customer Reviews
By: GC Williams
208 pages, 1 photo, 14 line illus
"In 1966, Williams published a book with the title Adaptation and Natural Selection: A Critique of Some Current Evolutionary Thought that became a classic. It is still widely read and widely recommended to students. This new book could appropriately carry the same title. Comparing the two measures a quarter-century of progress in evolutionary thought . . . . The book constructively critiques central evolutionary ideas. It should be published with the 1966 book in one volume. Together they make a devastating, and exciting, read." --Science
"Ranges widely, and many kinds of specialist could sample it for inspiration and fresh thinking. Only the future can reveal whether it will have as much influence as his previous books, but it does contain several ideas that are big enough to make it a possibility . . . . A delightful book." --Nature
"Interesting discussions of specialized topics." --Choice
"Thoughtful, provocative and pleasantly idiosyncratic. . . . consistently good. Th