Popular science Books

Book SynopsisSince the dawn of human civilization, forests have provided us with food, resources, and energy. The history of human development is also one of forest loss and transformation, and yet even in our increasingly urbanized societies we remain surprisingly dependent on forests for a wide range of goods and services. Moreover, forests still retain a remarkable hold on our environmental values. In an era of continuing tropical deforestation and temperate forest resurgence, and in the midst of uncertainties of climate and land use changes, it is more important than ever to understand what forests are, how they contribute to our livelihoods, and how they underpin our cultural histories and futures. In this Very Short Introduction Jaboury Ghazoul explores our contrasting interactions with forests, as well as their origins, dynamics, and the range of goods and services they provide to human society. Ghazoul concludes with an examination of the recent history of deforestation, transitions to reforestation, and the future outlook for forests particularly in the context of expected climate change.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewAlthough the Very Short Introduction books aim to be accessible introductions to someone new to their subject, there is ample here to stimulate anyone with an interest in forests. * Wilma Harper, Scottish Forestry *I very much enjoyed this book, and the exercise of thinking of things that I would have liked mentioned was part of the fun there weren't many of these; Jaboury Ghazoul has packed a huge amount into this slim volume. Reading about favourite examples like the Sook Plain and the Eastern White Pine was like seeing old friends again. I heartily recommend this book to forest ecologists, and suggest that anyone beginning a degree in ecology spend an evening reading it. * BES Forest Ecology Group, Dan Bebber *Table of Contents1. Forests in human culture ; 2. Forest origins ; 3. Many forests ; 4. Forest dynamics ; 5. Good and services ; 6. Past, present and future ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisA vast subject that includes a strange vocabulary and an apparent mass of facts, human anatomy can at first appear confusing and off-putting. But the basic construction of the human body - the skeleton, the organs of the chest and abdomen, the nervous system, the head and neck with its sensory systems and anatomy for breathing and swallowing - is vital for anyone studying medicine, biology, and health studies. In this Very Short Introduction Leslie Klenerman provides a clear, concise, and accessible introduction to the structure, function, and main systems of the human body, including a number of clear and simple illustrations to explain the key areas. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of Contents1. Development of anatomy ; 2. The skeleton and its attachments ; 3. A vital system ; 4. Communication and control ; 5. Head and neck ; 6. The abdomen ; 7. The limbs ; 8. Man the tottering biped ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisHow animals behave is crucial to their survival and reproduction. The application of new molecular tools such as DNA fingerprinting and genomics is causing a revolution in the study of animal behaviour, while developments in computing and image analysis allow us to investigate behaviour in ways never previously possible. By combining these with the traditional methods of observation and experiments, we are now learning more about animal behaviour than ever before.In this Very Short Introduction Tristram D. Wyatt discusses how animal behaviour has evolved, how behaviours develop in each individual (considering the interplay of genes, epigenetics, and experience), how we can understand animal societies, and how we can explain collective behaviour such as swirling flocks of starlings. Using lab and field studies from across the whole animal kingdom, he looks at mammals, butterflies, honeybees, fish, and birds, analysing what drives behaviour, and exploring instinct, learning, and culture. Looking more widely at behavioural ecology, he also considers some aspects of human behaviour.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewThis slim volume ... is packed full of facts, photographs, diagrams, and helpful graphs. Wyatt's writing is clear and concise, and the content is comprehensively referenced ... This is a fine book that will undoubtedly entertain and educate a broad readership. I highly recommend this book to anyone with even a marginal interest in animal behaviour. This work will be of interest to students of biology, researchers and non-specialists alike. * Billy Mills, New Nature *concise, informative and insightful introduction to the fascinating world of animal behaviour * Mark Greener, Fortean Times *read Wyatt's compelling introduction before you watch the next nature documentary. Itll deepen and widen your understanding and appreciation of these beautiful stories. If you're sitting comfortably, Wyatt's book is a great place to begin. * Mark Greener, Fortean Times *written in a very clear and engaging way, which should certainly stimulate general readers to explore animal behaviour in some depth. * Mark Briffa, Animal Behaviour *Bird watchers should take note of this book. Amateur entomologists should take note of it as well. Quite simply, if you spend any time at all observing, contemplating, or taking any notice whatsoever of the activities of animals, animal behavior is a subject about which you should have at least basic understanding... And as with so any subjects, a Very Short Introduction is a uperb place to begin. * The Well-read Naturalist *Table of ContentsREFERENCES; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisHuman beings are the only species to have evolved the trait of emotional crying. We even create music, fiction, film, and theatre - 'Tragedy' - to encourage crying. Michael Trimble looks at the physiology and evolution of this unique human behaviour, exploring its links with language, consciousness, empathy, and religious practices.Trade ReviewThis is a fascinating cultural and neurological study about how humans are unique in shedding tears of sorrow, especially in the context of listening to music or attending the theatre... * Network Review *Table of Contents1. Introduction ; 2. Crying ; 3. The Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology of Crying ; 4. Evolution ; 5. Tragedy and Tears ; 6. Tearful Logic ; 7. Why Do We Get Pleasure from Crying at the Theatre? ; Appendix 1: Neuroanatomy ; Appendix 2: Glossary of terms ; Notes ; Bibliography ; Index

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Book SynopsisCrystals have fascinated us for centuries with their beauty and symmetry, and have often been invested with magical powers. The use of X-ray diffraction, first pioneered in 1912 by father and son William and Lawrence Bragg, enabled us to probe the structure of molecules, and heralded the scientific study of crystals, leading to an understanding of their atomic arrangements at a fundamental level. The new discipline, called X-ray crystallography, has subsequently evolved into a formidable science that underpins many other scientific areas. Starting from the determination of the structures of very simple crystals, such as that of common salt, today it has become almost routine to determine the positions of tens of thousands of atoms in a crystal. In this Very Short Introduction Mike Glazer shows how the discoveries in crystallography have been applied to the creation of new and important materials, to drugs and pharmaceuticals and to our understanding of genetics, cell biology, proteins, and viruses. Tracing the history of crystallography, he analyses astonishing developments in new sources of X-rays, as well as of neutrons, and in electron microscopy, and considers the impact they have on the study of crystals today. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Reviewhighly recommended as a starter reference on crystallography for general readers with a scientific bent. The book combines scientific rigour and moderate entertainment value in a brief and affordable format. * John D. Clayton, Contemporary Physics *The merits of this book are that it is extremely concise and compact, yet precise and complete; it is written in a very pleasant and clear way; and it mixes history, anecdotes, theory and examples in a well-blended recipe. It is easy to read and the concepts flow naturally, and you arrive to the end with the impression of a birds eye view on all what you need to know about crystallography. * Crystallography Reviews *This book is an excellent account of the science behind the study and understanding of crystals. * John Nicholson, Chemistry and Industry *Explaining in 144 pages just what crystallography is, how it originated and developed, and in what fields it has been put to use, this new VSI volume superbly embodies the purpose of the Very Short Introductions series. * The Well-Read Naturalist *for anyone layperson or technicianwho would like to know what crystallography is all about, this is the book to read. * Optics and Photonics *The author of this book should write so many more books, what a good read! The illustrations were informative and clear and the writing was not only informative, but there was also a distinct sense of humor. I would highly recommend this to anyone working with or interested in crystallography or XRD. * Emily, Amazon Review *Table of ContentsPreface ; A long history! ; Symmetry ; Crystal structures ; Diffraction ; Seeing atoms ; Sources of radiation ; Further Reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisA witty, irreverent guide to the birth, development, and state-of-the-art of one of the most important theories in Earth Science. The book explains how modern plate tectonics accounts for phenomena such as great earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and how it controls conditions at the Earth's surface, including global geography and climate.Trade ReviewThis book is full of delightful surprises...I highly recommend this book as one for you if you want to be properly informed and royally entertained. * Pete Loader, Teaching Earth Science *I think that it is useful and important for current and future generations of earth scientists to have an understanding of the roots of their science; this book may be one pathway that our students could reach that goal. * Kevin P. Furlong, professor in the department of geosciences at the Pennsylvania State University, American Journal of Physics *Far from being a dense, jargon-laden history book, Livermore brings an accessible writing style and brilliant humour to the story, which certainly had me chuckling. If you know anyone (including yourself!) who is keen to find out more about our planet, give them this book. * Jonathan Scafidi, The Geological Society *...a super read; I thoroughly enjoyed it! If you have the slightest interest in the history of plate tectonics, do read this bookyou will not be disappointed! * Michael Brown, International Geology Review *The Tectonic Plates are Moving! is a rock-solid read... the pacing of the book is great, the irreverent jokes and anecdotes genuinely amusing, the overview of different schools of thought balanced, and the explanations lucid. * The Inquisitive Biologist *This book explains modern plate tectonics in a non-technical manner, showing not only how it accounts for phenomena such as earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions, but also how it controls conditions at the Earths surface, including global geography and climate. * Ian Angus, Green Left Weekly *This is a great read for anyone interested in this fascinating subject. * Chris Darmon, Down to Earth *[A] packed account, richly contextualized. * Barbara Kiser, Nature *Roy Livermores book provides a comprehensive and authoritative account of the development of plate tectonics theory, from the earliest days of sea-floor spreading to current ideas on mantle plumes and the tectonics of Mars. It clearly describes the critical interactions of science, technology, human personalities and historical accidents. This is a thoroughly enjoyable book, written from the point of view of a knowledgeable insider. * Roger C. Searle, Durham University, UK *Table of ContentsPart I: First Generation 1: Probably the best theory on Earth 2: The Paving Stone Theory of World Tectonics 3: Poles Apart 4: Plate Tectonics by Jerks 5: Plate Tectonics by Creeps Part II: Second Generation 6: Scum of the Earth 7: Continents and Supercontinents 8: All at Sea 9: Chilling Out 10: Ups and Downs 11: The Final Frontier

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Book SynopsisIn this Very Short Introduction Frank Close describes the historical development of nuclear physics, our understanding of the nucleus, how nuclei form, and the applications of the field in medicine. Exploring key concepts, Frank Close shows how nuclear physics brings the physics of the stars to Earth.Table of Contents1. The fly in the cathedral ; 2. Nuclear alchemy ; 3. Powerful forces ; 4. Nucleosynthesis ; 5. Odds, evens, and shells ; 6. Beyond the Periodic table ; 7. Exotic nuclei ; 8. Applied nuclear physics ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisWhen humanity first glimpsed planet Earth from space, the unity of the system that supports humankind entered the popular consciousness. The concept of the Earth''s atmosphere, biosphere, oceans, soil, and rocks operating as a closely interacting system has rapidly gained ground in science. This new field, involving geographers, geologists, biologists, oceanographers, and atmospheric physicists, is known as Earth System Science. In this Very Short Introduction, Tim Lenton considers how a world in which humans could evolve was created; how, as a species, we are now reshaping that world; and what a sustainable future for humanity within the Earth System might look like. Drawing on elements of geology, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, Lenton asks whether Earth System Science can help guide us onto a sustainable course before we alter the Earth system to the point where we destroy ourselves and our current civilisation.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsREFERENCES; INDEX

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Book SynopsisIn humans, the perception of odours adds a fourth dimension to life, from the scent of flowers, the aroma of foods, and all the subtle smells in the environment. But how many types of odours can we distinguish? Why do we like the food we like? Which are the most powerful odorants, and how well does the human sense of smell perform compared with that of a dog or a butterfly? The sense of smell is highly complex, and such complexity discouraged scientists for a long time, leaving the world of smell in an atmosphere of mystery. Only recently, thanks to the new tools furnished by molecular biology and neuroscience, are we beginning to answer these questions, uncovering the hidden secrets of our sense of smell, and decoding the language used by most animals to communicate. In this book, Paolo Pelosi, one of the leading figures in the development of the science of olfaction, recounts how the chemical alphabet behind smell has been pieced together over the past three decades. Drawing on anecdTrade ReviewLeaving no stone unturned, Pelosi provides an overview as broad as it is deep, covering the history of the science of olfaction and also how the sense of smell works in diverse organisms from worms to insects to rodents to birds to humans. [...] The author does an excellent job of showcasing how our knowledge of the sense of smell has been gained through research across vastly different scientific disciplines, from chemistry to molecular biology and genetics to neuroscience and ecology. * William B. Walker III, The Quarterly Review of Biology *This is fascinating science and one that will intrigue different levels of readersgeneral, scientists, or practitioners. The language of the book is intended for the general reader; Pelosi effectively communicates the science to those with minimal background in chemistry or biology, even when the subject includes a few chemical names or drawings of molecules. * P. W. Baures, CHOICE *a fascinating exploration at the interface between science and a particular form of qualia. * Network Review *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; PART ONE - SMELLS AND MOLECULES; PART TWO - MESSENGERS OF SEX AND DANGER; PART THREE - PROTEINS AND SMELLS; PART FOUR - AT THE EDGE OF THE IMAGINATION; CONCLUSION; REFERENCES; INDEX

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Book SynopsisAn isotope is a variant form of a chemical element, containing a different number of neutrons in its nucleus. Most elements exist as several isotopes. Many are stable while others are radioactive, and some may only exist fleetingly before decaying into other elements.In this Very Short Introduction, Rob Ellam explains how isotopes have proved enormously important across all the sciences and in archaeology. Radioactive isotopes may be familiar from their use in nuclear weapons, nuclear power, and in medicine, as well as in carbon dating. They have been central to establishing the age of the Earth and the origins of the solar system. Combining previous and new research, Ellam provides an overview of the nature of stable and radioactive isotopes, and considers their wide range of modern applications. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsPREFACE: AT HOME WITH THE BEILBYS; EPILOGUE; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisEvery day millions of people struggle with psychological and emotional problems. The Stressed Sex sets out to answer a simple, but crucial, question: are rates of psychological disorder different for men and women? The implications - for individuals and society alike - are far-reaching, and to date, this important issue has been largely ignored in all the debates raging about gender differences. Now Daniel Freeman and Jason Freeman present a ground-breaking combination of epidemiological analysis and evidence-based science to get to the bottom of what''s really going on. They discover which mental health problems are more common in men, and which are seen most often in women. And, in a finding that is sure to provoke lively debate, they reveal that, in any given year, women experience higher rates of psychological disorder than men. Why might this be the case? The Stressed Sex explains current scientific thinking on the possible reasons - and considers what might be done to address theTable of ContentsPREFACE; REFERENCES

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Book SynopsisThe 1960s revealed a new and revolutionary idea in geological thought: that the continents drift with respect to one another. After having been dismissed for decades as absurd, the concept gradually became part of geology''s basic principles. We now know that the Earth''s crust and upper mantle consist of a small number of rigid plates that move, and there are significant boundaries between pairs of plates, usually known as earthquake belts. Plate tectonics now explains much of the structure and phenomena we see today: how oceans form, widen, and disappear; why earthquakes and volcanoes are found in distinct zones which follow plate boundaries; how the great mountain ranges of the world were built. The impact of plate tectonics is studied closely as these processes continue: the Himalaya continues to grow, the Atlantic is widening, and new oceans are forming. In this Very Short Introduction Peter Molnar provides a succinct and authoritative account of the nature and mechanisms of plate tectonics and its impact on our understanding of Earth.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewThis excellent guide to the plate tectonics revolution joins the superb Very Short Introduction series ... The book is peppered with engaging images ... illustrated with beautifully produced line drawings. * Dr Chris Pyle, Geography *yet another informative and engaging book in the wonderful Very Short Introductions series. * Guardian Online, Grrl Scientist *Table of Contents1. The basic idea ; 2. Seafloor spreading and magnetic anomalies ; 3. Fracture zones and transform faults ; 4. Subduction of oceanic lithosphere ; 5. Rigid plates of lithosphere ; 6. Tectonics of continents ; 7. Tectonics of continents ; Further reading ; Index

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Book SynopsisOver the past sixty years, the spectacular growth of the technologies associated with the computer is visible for all to see and experience. Yet, the science underpinning this technology is less visible and little understood outside the professional computer science community. As a scientific discipline, computer science stands alongside the likes of molecular biology and cognitive science as one of the most significant new sciences of the post Second World War era. In this Very Short Introduction, Subrata Dasgupta sheds light on these lesser known areas and considers the conceptual basis of computer science. Discussing algorithms, programming, and sequential and parallel processing, he considers emerging modern ideas such as biological computing and cognitive modelling, challenging the idea of computer science as a science of the artificial. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; EPILOGUE; REFERENCES; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisThe hunt for the origin of the AIDS virus began over twenty years ago. It was a journey that went around the world and involved painstaking research to unravel how, when, and where the virus first infected humans. Dorothy H. Crawford traces the story back to the remote rain forests of Africa - home to the primates that carry the ancestral virus - and reveals how HIV-1 first jumped from chimpanzees to humans in rural south east Cameroon. Examining how this happened, and how it then travelled back to Colonial west central Africa where it eventually exploded as a pandemic, she asks why and how it was able to spread so widely. From hospital intensive care wards to research laboratories and the African rain forests, this is the wide-ranging story of a killer virus and a tale of scientific endeavour.Table of ContentsPreface ; Introduction: a new disease ; 1. The puzzle of HIV-1 ; 2. Tracing HIV to its roots ; 3. The primate connection ; 4. From rain forest to research laboratory ; 5. Timing SIV cpz's jump to humans ; 6. A vital first step for HIV-1 group M ; 7. Beginning the epic journey ; 8. HIV-1 group M meets the challenge ; 9. Past, present, and future pandemics ; References ; Further reading ; Glossary

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Book SynopsisYeast is humankind's favourite microbe, our partner in brewing, baking, and winemaking. Nicholas P. Money tells the story of this 10,000-year-long marriage, looking at how yeast served as a major factor in the development of civilization, celebrating its importance, and considering its future roles in molecular biology and genetic engineering.Trade ReviewA highly entertaining read ... a fascinating and lucid historical study, rich with biological intrigue. * Timothy James, Current Biology *The Rise of Yeast: How the sugar fungus shaped civilisation is an amazing story, about an amazing people-non-person relationship (and by an amazing writer): Surely, Moneys The Rise of Yeast is destined to be a classic and a thoroughly deserving award-winner! * Nigel Chaffey, Botany One, News and Views on Plant Biology and Ecology *The Rise of Yeast is a neat little book that elegantly covers a lot of ground. * Leon Vlieger, Inquisitive Biologist *Nicholas Money's effervescent tour is packed with delights, such as illustrations by Charles Tulasne, the Audubon of fungi, or the revelation that yeasts and humans share a common ancestor (and hundreds of genes). * Barabra Kiser, Nature *An enjoyable and readable account. * Brewer & Distiller International *Yeast rises our bread, ferments our beer, wine, and spirits, perfumes our fruit, nourishes our bodies, makes us bold in love, foments chaos, powers our cars, and unlocks the soul. We humans tend to think that we rule the earth, but the evidence on our behalf is scant. This fascinating book unlocks the mysteries of our world's true masters, which were here before we walked, will be here when we're gone, and, in the meantime, help make our time on the planet a lot more fun and infinitely more delicious. * Garrett Oliver, Brewmaster of the Brooklyn Brewery, Editor-in-Chief, The Oxford Companion to Beer *Table of ContentsNOTES; BIBLIOGRAPHY; INDEX

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Book SynopsisThe recent explosion of neuroscience techniques has been game-changing in terms of understanding the healthy brain, and in the development of neuropsychiatric treatments. One of the key techniques is functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), which allows us to examine the human brain non-invasively, and observe brain activity in real time. Through fMRI, we are beginning to build a deeper understanding of our thoughts, motivations, and behaviours. Already fMRI has been used to detect conscious activity in some patients who had all indications of being in a vegetative state, and even enabled us to communicate with some of them. This is just one of the many striking areas in which fMRI can be used to ''read minds''.As neuroscientists unravel the brain networks of self-control and morality, we might find abnormalities in criminal offenders. Could we predict crimes before they are committed? fMRI has also been used to detect racial bias in some people who regarded themselves as fair-minTrade ReviewThe authors highlight ethical issues that should be of interest to all of us. * Psychology Today *A valuable primer on what fMRI can and cannot tell us, at least at the moment * Julian Baggini, Financial Times *Rich coverage of behavioural research * Russell Poldrack, Nature *Table of ContentsBIBLIOGRAPHY; INDEX

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Book SynopsisThe recent explosion of neuroscience techniques has proved to be game changing in terms of understanding the healthy brain, and in the development of neuropsychiatric treatments. One of the key techniques available to us is functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), which allows us to examine the human brain non-invasively, and observe brain activity in real time. Through fMRI, we are beginning to build a deeper understanding of our thoughts, motivations, and behaviours. Recent reports that some patients who have all indications of being in a persistent vegetative state actually show conscious awareness, and were able to communicate with researchers, demonstrate perhaps the most remarkable and dramatic use of fMRI. But this is just the most striking of a number of areas in which fMRI is being used to ''read minds'', albeit in a very limited way. As neuroscientists unravel the regions of the brain involved in reward and motivation, and in romantic love, we are likely to develop the cTrade ReviewThis is a fascinating guide to neuroimaging and the wonders of one of the most complex structures in the universe: our brain. * PD Smith, The Guardian *A valuable primer on what fMRI can and cannot tell us, at least at the moment. * Julian Baggini, The Financial Times *Rich coverage of behavioural research. * Russell Poldrack, Nature *The authors highlight ethical issues that should be of interest to all of us. * Psychology Today *This concise, engaging tome begins by explaining the science behind fMRI technology to a non-specialist readership. The studies that follow are compelling. * Emmanuelle Smith, Therapy Today *Once picked up, this book is not easy to put down... it provides an important introduction to breakthroughs emerging from neuroimaging for people who are wondering what all the recent fuss regarding the brain is all about. * Professor John Krystal, MD, Yale University *Table of Contents1: How Does Neuroscience Impact Society? 2: Can Neuroscientists Read Your Mind? 3: A Racial Bias Hiding in Your Mind? 4: The Perfect Lie Detector? 5: How Moral is Your Brain? 6: Are You in Control? 7: Show Me Your Brain and I Know What You Buy? 8: Where Does this Leave Us? Bibliography Notes Index

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Book SynopsisFirst discovered in 1976, and long regarded as an easily manageable virus affecting isolated rural communities, Ebola rocketed to world prominence in 2014 as a deadly epidemic swept through Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia in West Africa. Thousands of people died as the extraordinarily contagious disease spread rapidly from villages to urban centres. Initial quarantine responses proved often too little and too late, and the medical infrastructure of the affected countries struggled to cope. By August 2014, several months after the start of the outbreak, the WHO declared the epidemic a public health emergency and international aid teams and volunteers began to pour in. But halting the epidemic proved to be hugely challenging, not only in terms of the practicalities of dealing with the sheer numbers of patients carrying the highly infectious virus, but in dealing with social and cultural barriers. The author, Dorothy Crawford, visited Sierra Leone while the epidemic was ongoing and met Trade ReviewThis excellent book provides an accessible account of all aspects of the virus, the disease, its history, how the dangerous 2014 epidemic developed, and how it was finally brought under controlstrongly recommended. * Professor Sir Anthony Epstein *Not only a superb story about the deadly virus but also a vivid account of human folly, frailty and bravery in combating it. * Robin A Weiss, Emeritus Professor of Viral Oncology, University College London *Table of ContentsENDNOTES; INDEX

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Book SynopsisRanging from vast inland seas to hydro-reservoirs, lakes are unique, complex, ecosystems. Warwick Vincent introduces lake science, or limnology, and the importance of protecting and sustaining these vitally important living resources. He explains the impact of factors such as climate, seasons, salinity, and sedimentation on lake biodiversity.Trade ReviewA fast-track insight into lakes, from how they're formed to a hit list of 'extreme lakes' in unusual places. Packed with facts but not (ahem) a dry read. * Sarah Barrell, National Geographic Traveller *Does an excellent job at showing how biology, chemistry and physics are inextricably linked and necessary to understand lakes. Overall, this short book provides an excellent and lucid introduction to the beauty and complexity of lakes. * Yves Prairie, UNESCO Chair in Global Environmental Change *This book is a sparkling gem! It is a must-read not only for novices intrigued by freshwaters but also academics teaching limnology (study of inland waters) and university students interested in the subject. * Marianne Moore, Frost Professor Emerita in Environmental Science, Wellesley College. *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: Deep waters 2: Sunlight and motion 3: Life support systems 4: Food chains to fish 5: Extreme lakes 6: Lakes and us Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisWhat is responsible for the differences between the sexes in so many animals, from the brilliant plumage of birds of paradise to the antlers on deer? And why are the traits that distinguish the sexes sometimes apparently detrimental to survival? Even when they look more or less alike, why do males and females sometimes behave differently? Questions like these have intrigued scientists and the public alike for many years, and new discoveries are showing us both how wildly variable the natural world is, and how some basic principles can help explain much of that variation. Like natural selection, sexual selection is a process that results from differential representation of genes in successive generations. Under sexual selection, however, the crucial characteristics that determine whether an individual reproduces depend on sexual competition, rather than survival ability. This Very Short Introduction considers the history of our understanding of sexual selection, from Darwin''s key insights to the modern day. Considering the investment animals place on reproduction, variation in mating systems, sexual conflict, and the origin of sexual dimorphism, Marlene Zuk and Leigh Simmons discuss questions such as whether females can really choose between males on aesthetic grounds, and how sexual conflict is resolved in different species. They conclude with a consideration of the thorny question of how, and even if, sexual selection theory applies to humans.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Review[A] delightful book ... informative and insightful ... Sexual Selection is thin and relatively cheap, but it's packed with more information than other books four times the size and price. * Mark Greener, Fortean Times *An excellent, fascinating introduction to the recent discoveries that have revolutionized our understanding of competition over mates, mate choice and differences between the sexes. Darwin would have been both pleased and amazed. * Malte Andersson, Professor emeritus, Animal Ecology, University of Gothenburg *Zuk and Simmons' book is enjoyable and informative. * Journal of Mammalogy *Table of Contents1: Darwin's other big idea 2: Choosing from the field of competitors 3: Sex roles and stereotypes 4: Sexual selection after mating 5: Sexual conflict 6: Mating systems, or who goes with whom, and for how long 7: How sex makes species surviveFurther ReadingIndex

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Book SynopsisThe twentieth century was defined by physics. From the minds of the world''s leading physicists there flowed a river of ideas that would transport mankind to the pinnacle of wonderment and to the very depths of human despair. This was a century that began with the certainties of absolute knowledge and ended with the knowledge of absolute uncertainty. It was a century in which physicists developed weapons with the capacity to destroy our reality, whilst at the same time denying us the possibility that we can ever properly comprehend it. Almost everything we think we know about the nature of our world comes from one theory of physics. This theory was discovered and refined in the first thirty years of the twentieth century and went on to become quite simply the most successful theory of physics ever devised. Its concepts underpin much of the twenty-first century technology that we have learned to take for granted. But its success has come at a price, for it has at the same time completely undermined our ability to make sense of the world at the level of its most fundamental constituents. Rejecting the fundamental elements of uncertainty and chance implied by quantum theory, Albert Einstein once famously declared that ''God does not play dice''. Niels Bohr claimed that anybody who is not shocked by the theory has not understood it. The charismatic American physicist Richard Feynman went further: he claimed that nobody understands it. This is quantum theory, and this book tells its story. Jim Baggott presents a celebration of this wonderful yet wholly disconcerting theory, with a history told in forty episodes -- significant moments of truth or turning points in the theory''s development. From its birth in the porcelain furnaces used to study black body radiation in 1900, to the promise of stimulating new quantum phenomena to be revealed by CERN''s Large Hadron Collider over a hundred years later, this is the extraordinary story of the quantum world.Oxford Landmark Science books are ''must-read'' classics of modern science writing which have crystallized big ideas, and shaped the way we think.Trade ReviewReview from previous edition Review from previous edition A highly original and engaging account of the most important theory in science. * Jim Al-Khalili *Jim Baggott's survey of the history of the emergence of the twentieth century's most enigmatic but successful theory is a delight to read. It is clear, accessible, engaging, informative, and thorough. It illuminates an important, revolutionary era of modern science and the varied personalities behind it. * Peter Atkins *[A] wonderful histiry of the scientists and ideas behind quantum mechanics... The basic history behind the quantum revolution is well known, but no one has told it in quite such a compellingly human and thematically seamless way. * Publishers Weekly *Jim Baggott's inspired -- and inspiring -- idea of presenting the history of quantum physics in terms of 40 key moments works both an an introduction for the uninitiated and as a refresher for anyone who thinks they know the story. Even familiar stories come up fresh in these juxtapositions. Great to dip in to! * John Gribbin *an enjoyable addition to the overall quantum story * Chemistry World *A truly exceptional book * CERN Courier *An accessible and informative history * Science magazine *gripping story * Flipside Magazine *Table of ContentsPART I: QUANTUM IN ACTION; PART II: QUANTUM PROBABILITY AND QUANTUM UNCERTAINTY; PART III: QUANTUM INTERPRETATION; PART IV: QUANTUM FIELDS; PART V: QUANTUM PARTICLES; PART VI: QUANTUM REALITY; PART VII: QUANTUM GRAVITY

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Book SynopsisThe million copy international bestseller, critically acclaimed and translated into over 25 languages. As influential today as when it was first published, The Selfish Gene has become a classic exposition of evolutionary thought. Professor Dawkins articulates a gene''s eye view of evolution - a view giving centre stage to these persistent units of information, and in which organisms can be seen as vehicles for their replication. This imaginative, powerful, and stylistically brilliant work not only brought the insights of Neo-Darwinism to a wide audience, but galvanized the biology community, generating much debate and stimulating whole new areas of research. Forty years later, its insights remain as relevant today as on the day it was published. This 40th anniversary edition includes a new epilogue from the author discussing the continuing relevance of these ideas in evolutionary biology today, as well as the original prefaces and foreword, and extracts from early reviews. Oxford LanTrade ReviewIn 1976, The Selfish Gene became the first real blockbuster popular science book, a poetic mark in the sand to the public and scientists alike: this idea had to enter our thinking, our research and our culture... The Selfish Gene has attained its own literary and scientific immortality: as long as we study life, it will be read. * Adam Rutherford, The Observer *Dawkins's prose is lucid and powerful, his argument difficult to contend ... The Selfish Gene has attained its own literary and scientific immortality: as long as we study life, it will be read. * Adam Rutherford, The Observer *highly readable and entertaining ... exhilirating gene's-eye-view of life * Robert McCrum, Observer *Books about science tend to fall into two categories: those that explain it to lay people in the hope of cultivating a wide readership, and those that try to persuade fellow scientists to support a new theory, usually with equations. Books that achieve both changing science and reaching the public are rare. Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species (1859) was one. The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins is another. From the moment of its publication 40 years ago, it has been a sparkling best-seller and a scientific game-changer * Matt Ridley, Nature *Richard Dawkins' magnificent introduction to the world of popular science writing ... Punchy, elegant, self-righteous, devotional (at least in a Dawinian way), it showed that genetics was absorbing, challenging and important * Nick Spencer, The Tablet *Table of ContentsIntroduction to 30th anniversary edition Preface to 1989 2nd edition Foreword to 1976 1st edition Preface to 1976 1st edition 1: Why are people? 2: The replicators 3: Immortal coils 4: The gene machine 5: Aggression: stability and the selfish machine 6: Genesmanship 7: Family planning 8: Battle of the generations 9: Battle of the sexes 10: You scratch my back, I'll ride on yours 11: Memes: the new replicators 12: Nice guys finish first 13: The long reach of the gene Epilogue to 40th anniversary edition Endnotes Reviews from earlier editions Updated bibliography Index and key to bibliography

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Book SynopsisIn August 2017, 100 million will gather across the USA to watch a total solar eclipse. This book, written by the widely read popular science author Frank Close, describes the spellbinding allure of this most beautiful natural phenomenon, taking the reader to a war zone in the Western Sahara, to the South Pacific, and to the African bush.Trade ReviewEntertaining, inspiring, and highly informative. * John Riutta, Astronomy, Featured Book Reviews *Science and wonder mix seamlessly in this tale. * The Weekly Standard *A down-to-earth, lyrical account of solar eclipses, centering on his [Frank's] trips to Africa, the South Pacific and other locales where he pursues, with a mix of intrepid zest and mathematical precision, total solar eclipses. Eclipse beautifully blends these travel narratives with the history of eclipses. * Shelf Awareness *The author artfully weaves together his own experiences and an explanation of the phenomenon. * Kirkus Reviews *Close's simple, winding, and occasionally evocative language is tinged with nostalgia, and his readers will see both the humanist and scientific elements involved in the "exquisite alignment of sun, moon, and earth." Close provides eyewitness account from regular people and personal reflections on seeing totality, convincingly demonstrating that there is nothing better than standing in lunar darkness and feeling 'humbled by the ability of science to predict'. * Publishers Weekly *Close's book, combining the rigour of a scientist with the excitement of a layman, is [a] perfect primer.More than just a primer on the science of solar eclipses, this memoir chronicles a physicists lifetime fascination with the celestial phenomenon and introduces readers to the quirky world of eclipse chasers. * Science News Books of the Year *There are a plethora of guides to eclipse chasing that will satisfy those who want to know all the whys and wherefores of predicting and observing eclipses ... The reader does get a real sense of the lasting impact these eclipses have had on Close and the feeling that being present in the umbral shadow is an experience not to be missed. As an introduction to eclipses and the places eclipse watching might take you, this is an interesting read. * Steve Bell, Observatory Magazine *Table of Contents1: Peterborough 30 June 1954 2: Waiting for Godot 3: Preparation 4: Cornwall: 11 August 1999 5: June 21st is Midwinter's Day 6: "Who's arranged this eclipse?" 7: Earthshine in the Sahara: Libya 2006 8: The most remote eclipses 9: Atlantic Adventure 10: Back to the Future Epilogue: Everything under the Sun is in Tune

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Book SynopsisJohn Parrington argues that social interaction and culture have deeply shaped the exceptional nature of human consciousness.The mental capacities of the human mind far outstrip those of other animals. Our imaginations and creativity have produced art, music, and literature; built bridges and cathedrals; enabled us to probe distant galaxies, and to ponder the meaning of our existence. When our minds become disordered, they can also take us to the depths of despair. What makes the human brain unique, and able to generate such a rich mental life?In this book, John Parrington draws on the latest research on the human brain to show how it differs strikingly from those of other animals in its structure and function at a molecular and cellular level. And he argues that this ''shift'', enlarging the brain, giving it greater flexibility and enabling higher functions such as imagination, was driven by tool use, but especially by the development of one remarkable tool - language.The complex sociaTrade Reviewimpressive study * David Lorimer, Paradigm Explorer *John Parrington gives us a very personal take on what it is to be human from the viewpoint of the mind/brain... a genuinely interesting [book]... Parrington's theme is fascinating, and the book is loaded with ideas. * Popular Science *A tour de force that will equally interest both scientists and those who consider themselves over on the humanities side. * Richard Lofthouse, Quad *John Parrington has already proved himself a master-explainer, transmitting the extraordinary breakthroughs in contemporary science to a non-specialist readership. Now he takes on the big question of the relationship between cultural change and the development of the human brain. The result is a book of remarkable range and empathy, in which readers with a background in the humanities will learn a great deal of neuroscience and those with scientific interests will encounter great cultural riches, as Parrington brings together the theory of play, problems of mental illness and much, much more. * Sir Jonathan Bate, Foundation Professor of Environmental Humanities, Arizona State University *What is it about the human brain that allowed it to take over every corner of the planet? And what does that have to do with language, culture, art, and consciousness? With a keen and insightful eye, Parrington dissects what we know about the mind and rebuilds it into a powerful framework. * David Eagleman, neuroscientist at Stanford and NYT best-selling author of Livewired and The Runaway Species *Table of ContentsIntroduction Part 1: Origins of Mind 1: Mind and Matter 2: Tool and Symbol 3: Individual and Society Part II: Mind and Brain 4: Nerve and Brain 5: Genome and Epigenome 6: Growth and Development Part III: The Dynamic Mind 7: Learning and Memory 8: Thought and Language 9: Creativity and Imagination 10: Emotion and Reason 11: Conscious and Unconscious Part IV: Mind in Trouble 12: Sanity and Madness 13: Depression and Anxiety 14: Normality and Diversity 15: Crime and Punishment Part V: The Social Mind 16: Class and Division 17: Resistance and Rebellion Part VI: Mind and Culture 18: Music and Rhythm 19: Art and Design 20: Fact and Fiction 21: Science and Technology Part VII: The Future of Mind 22: Mind and Meaning 23: Mind and Machine A 21st Century Mind Glossary Endnotes

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Book SynopsisOver half a billion years ago life on earth took an incredible step in evolution, when animals learned to build skeletons. Using many different materials, from calcium carbonate and phosphate, and even silica, to make shell and bone, they started creating the support structures that are now critical to most living forms, providing rigidity and strength. Manifesting in a vast variety of forms, they provided the framework for sophisticated networks of life that fashioned the evolution of Earth''s oceans, land, and atmosphere. Within a few tens of millions of years, all of the major types of skeleton had appeared. Skeletons enabled an unprecedented array of bodies to evolve, from the tiniest seed shrimp to the gigantic dinosaurs and blue whales. The earliest bacterial colonies constructed large rigid structures - stromatolites - built up by trapping layers of sediment, while the mega-skeleton that is the Great Barrier Reef is big enough to be visible from space. The skeletons of millions Trade ReviewThe authors make the journey enchanting with stories of how fossils are found and why they are so important in the skeletal record. * Sandra Shefelbine, Mechanical & Industrial Engineering and Bioengineering, Northeastern University, The Quarterly Review of Biology *An engaging story... woven together here by tales of discovery and discoverers. * Robert Montgomerie, Times Higher Education *Skeletons is a superb, highly enjoyable book ... very informative and engaging. * Melanie Brehaut, Palaeontological Association Newsletter *In this book, Zalasiewicz and Williams provide an accessible and fun introduction to all kinds of skeletons, from the tiny capsules of microscopic diatoms to the great bones of the dinosaurs, and from lignified vascular plants to coral reefs. A great introduction to the evolution of life and especially to understanding why some organisms are small and some are large. * Michael Benton, University of Bristol *Table of ContentsPrologue 1: A world (mostly) without skeletons 2: Skeleton diversity 3: A shell on the outside 4: A shell on the inside 5: Greening the land 6: Mega-skeletons 7: Mini-skeletons 8: Flying skeletons 9: Skeleton archives 10: Future skeletons Index

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Book SynopsisLess than 450 years ago, all European scholars believed that the Earth was at the centre of a Universe that was at most a few million miles in extent, and that the planets, sun, and stars all rotated around this centre. Less than 250 years ago, they believed that the Universe was created essentially in its present state about 6000 years ago. Even less than 150 years ago, the view that living species were the result of special creation by God was still dominant. The recognition by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace of the mechanism of evolution by natural selection has completely transformed our understanding of the living world, including our own origins. In this Very Short Introduction Brian and Deborah Charlesworth provide a clear and concise summary of the process of evolution by natural selection, and how natural selection gives rise to adaptations and eventually, over many generations, to new species. They introduce the central concepts of the field of evolutionary biology, as they have developed since Darwin and Wallace on the subject, over 140 years ago, and discuss some of the remaining questions regarding processes. They highlight the wide range of evidence for evolution, and the importance of an evolutionary understanding for instance in combating the rapid evolution of resistance by bacteria to antibiotics and of HIV to antiviral drugs. This reissue includes some key updates to the main text and a completely updated Further Reading section.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsREFERENCES; FURTHER READING; INDEX

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Book SynopsisFor millions of years reptiles have walked, crawled, and slithered over the face of our Earth. From the mighty dinosaurs who dominated the land, the pterosaurs who took to the air, and the marine adapted ichthyosaurs, to the living reptiles today such as the lizards, snakes, crocodiles, and turtles, plus the single species of tuatara in New Zealand, reptiles have come in all shapes and sizes. In this Very Short Introduction Tom Kemp discusses the adaptations reptiles made to first leave the sea and colonise the land in dry conditions, such as their waterproof skin, their ability to expel almost dry waste products, their efficient use of external heat for maintaining their body temperature, and the amniotic egg that is laid and develops on dry land. Considering the different living groups of reptiles today, Kemp then describes how their respective bodies are adapted for their different ways of life, from snake feeding patterns to the way crocodiles breathe. Finally, Kemp assesses the threat of extinction to reptile species due to over-exploitation, habitat destruction, and climate change, and considers what can be done.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewReptiles are more than the 'abhorrent, cold-bodied animals' of classical myth, but 10,000 species of successful animals. Tom Kemp outlines all the key aspects of the biology of lizards, snakes, turtles, and crocodiles, and traces their evolution, all illustrated by intriguing anecdotes * Professor Michael Benton *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: What is a reptile? 2: The history of reptiles 3: Lizards 4: Snakes 5: Crocodiles 6: Turtles 7: Reptile conservation Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisOver the last forty years the philosophy of biology has emerged as an important sub-discipline of the philosophy of science. Covering some of science''s most divisive topics, such as philosophical issues in genetics, it also encompasses areas where modern biology has increasingly impinged on traditional philosophical questions, such as free will, essentialism, and nature vs nurture.In this Very Short Introduction Samir Okasha outlines the core issues with which contemporary philosophy of biology is engaged. Offering a whistle-stop tour of the history of biology, he explores key ideas and paradigm shifts throughout the centuries, including areas such as the theory of evolution by natural selection; the concepts of function and design; biological individuality; and the debate over adaptationism. Throughout Okasha makes clear the relevance of biology for understanding human beings, human society, and our place in the natural world, and the importance of engaging with these issues.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewOkasha writes beautifully and clearly, presenting and discussing the major contemporary ideas about evolution,adaptation, the species concept, genes, and evolutionary psychology in humans ... I venture to suggest that it should be mandatory reading for anyone contemplating -or having- a degree in biology. * Conservation Biology *Okasha's book will prove to be a very useful resource for introducing undergraduate students to the elements of philosophy of biology. * Joeri Witteveen and Sara Green, Metascience *In this accessible, beautifully and clearly written book, Samir Okasha presents some of the major topics in the Philosophy of Biology. The book illuminates the intimate relations between the science and the philosophy of biology, and is an excellent and solid basis for exploring the new theoretical frameworks and controversies that are emerging in this vibrant field. * Professor Eva Jablonka, Tel Aviv University *In this excellent addition to the Very Short Introduction series, Samir Okasha offers a lucid and concise account of one of the most vital fields in contemporary philosophy. This will be the best starting point for anyone interested in exploring philosophical reflection on the biological sciences. * Philip Kitcher, Columbia University *Table of Contents1: Why philosophy of biology? 2: Evolution and natural selection 3: Teleology, function, and purpose 4: Species and classification 5: Biological individuality 6: Genes 7: Biology, culture, and society Further reading Index

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Book SynopsisThe marvellous complexity of the Universe emerges from several deep laws and a handful of fundamental constants that fix its shape, scale, and destiny. Peter Atkins identifies the minimum decisions that would be needed for the Universe to behave as it does, arguing that the laws of Nature can spring from very little. Or perhaps from nothing at all.Trade ReviewAtkins writes in a clear and humorous manner for the lay reader. Dont skip the notes at the end of the book. Some real gems are hidden there ... Recommended for undergraduates and general readers. * CHOICE *This short volume is essential reading for anyone who balks at the mention of Schrödinger, equations and cats included... Atkins sweeps aside the mathematical mystique with his characteristic wit. * Zoe Hackett, Chemistry World *Tour de force... this is a compact 168 pages that delivers splendidly on the question of where the natural laws came from. * Brian Clegg, popularscience.com *It's rare to find a study of physical laws that is also a bravura display of rarefied humour and experiential depth; but such is this gem by chemist Peter Atkins. * Barbara Kiser, Nature *I enjoyed reading the book, not only for the main themes but also for several asides on history, etymology, and so on. * Phillip Helbig, Observatory Magazine *Atkins writes in a charming, even chummy way. He understands our confusion and leads us onwards with the promise of great insights: how the very laws of physics came to be ... Conjuring the Universe is a clear example of [Atkins's] extraordinary erudition and flair. * Robyn Williams, Australian Book Review *Table of ContentsPreface 1: Back to eternity 2: Much ado about nothing 3: Anarchy rules 4: The heat of the moment 5: Beyond anacrhy 6: The creative power of ignorance 7: The charge of the light brigade 8: Measure for measure 9: The cry from the depths Notes Bibliography

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