Erwin Fleissner, an eminent cancer researcher and teacher, offers a personal and professional reflection on the most significant developments in molecular genetics and cell biology over the past fifty years. Contrasting the humanistic side of scientific research with more deterministic or "mechanical" explanations of life processes, Fleissner discusses everything from natural selection to the tradition of rational inquiry stemming from the Enlightenment. He goes on to describe the structures of macromolecules and their "organizing" principles as well as cancer genes, stem cells, and the Human Genome Project. He also explores neuronal cells and the emergence of consciousness and how biological evolution is the foundation of our personal reality as well as our global responsibility. Fleissner asserts that scientific investigations do not negate our essential "humanness"; nor should the public fear them. Taking an optimistic perspective, he argues that a deeper understanding of ourselves as biological entities ultimately provides us with greater health, serenity, and self-knowledge. At once engaging history, moving memoir, and rich scientific analysis, Vital Harmonies tackles some of the most important questions facing humanity today.
Erwin Fleissner, an eminent cancer researcher and teacher, offers a personal and professional reflection on the most significant developments in molecular genetics and cell biology over the past fifty years. Contrasting the humanistic side of scientific research with more deterministic or "mechanical" explanations of life processes, Fleissner discusses everything from natural selection to the tradition of rational inquiry stemming from the Enlightenment. He goes on to describe the structures of macromolecules and their "organizing" principles as well as cancer genes, stem cells, and the Human Genome Project. He also explores neuronal cells and the emergence of consciousness and how biological evolution is the foundation of our personal reality as well as our global responsibility. Fleissner asserts that scientific investigations do not negate our essential "humanness"; nor should the public fear them. Taking an optimistic perspective, he argues that a deeper understanding of ourselves as biological entities ultimately provides us with greater health, serenity, and self-knowledge. At once engaging history, moving memoir, and rich scientific analysis, Vital Harmonies tackles some of the most important questions facing humanity today.
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