The Wonder of Genetics: The Creepy, the Curious, and the Commonplace

This refreshingly clear layperson's overview of genetics shows how heredity actually works and how it is studied in plants and animals, clearly explaining these concepts without an overload of technical jargon. The author devotes separate chapters to such popular topics as: the genetic differences between males and females, the potential effects of radiation on the human genome, eating irradiated or genetically modified foods, cloning, genetic therapy, stem-cell research, nature vs. nurture, and how genes are related to many diseases, psychological disturbances, and possibly other behaviors. The book concludes by addressing common misconceptions about genetics and emphasizing the discipline's potential for curing some diseases, extending human lifespan, enhancing medicine and agriculture, and generally improving society.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Prometheus Books
Published: 09/01/2010
ISBN: 9781616142148
Pages: 338
Weight: 1.14lbs
Size: 9.18h x 6.38w x 1.15d

Review Citations: Choice 05/01/2011
Publishers Weekly 12/20/2010
Reference and Research Bk News 02/01/2011 pg. 264