Scientists continually look for the genetic factors that make humans so very different in appearance and behaviour from most animals - the genes that are uniquely human. Respected biochemist and author Charles Pasternak argues that such genes do not exist. Instead, he suggests that it is our desire to quest - for food and shelter, for knowledge, for wealth, for adventure - coupled with our unique physical abilities to do so that have controlled our evolution and have led humans to develop away from closely related animals.
In this intriguing work of history, philosophy, and popular science, Pasternak uses his extensive biological knowledge to discuss man's nature and achievements, his genetic makeup, and his evolution.
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In this epic work Charles Pasternak traces life on earth from the most primitive cells, through ancient civilizations and the great artists, scientists, writers and explorers of the past, to the genetic engineers of today. In a thought-provoking view of the history of mankind he argues that it is not any single genetic difference, but a combination of very subtle changes that has enabled man to exercise a greater propensity for quest. It is this that has led to our domination over other species.
Conversely, he argues that a weakening in the exercise of this basic instinct among the western nations will lead to a decline in their influence, relative to that of eastern populations such as those of China and India, south east Asia and Japan.
Pasternak argues that it is the heightened ability of humans to quest beyond their immediate needs that has driven human development. The upright human posture, together with physically skilful hands, a sophisticated vocal cord and three times as many cortical neurons as a chimpanzee, have put humans in their highly advantageous position.
This thoughtful work spans science, philosophy, religion and the arts, to examine the past and the future of the human race.
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Book Description Condition: New. An intriguing work of history, philosophy, and popular science that explores the human desire to quest. Scientists continually look for the genetic factors that make humans so very different in appearance and behaviour from most animals -- the genes that are uniquely human. Num Pages: 432 pages, Illustrations. BIC Classification: HP; PDZ; PSA. Category: (G) General (US: Trade). Dimension: 223 x 148 x 33. Weight in Grams: 692. . 2003. 1st Edition. Hardcover. . . . . Seller Inventory # V9780470851449
Book Description Condition: New. An intriguing work of history, philosophy, and popular science that explores the human desire to quest. Scientists continually look for the genetic factors that make humans so very different in appearance and behaviour from most animals -- the genes that are uniquely human. Num Pages: 432 pages, Illustrations. BIC Classification: HP; PDZ; PSA. Category: (G) General (US: Trade). Dimension: 223 x 148 x 33. Weight in Grams: 692. . 2003. 1st Edition. Hardcover. . . . . Books ship from the US and Ireland. Seller Inventory # V9780470851449
Book Description Condition: New. Seller Inventory # 1198928-n
Book Description Hardcover. Condition: New. Seller Inventory # 6666-WLY-9780470851449