50 Genetics Ideas You Really Need to Know

by Mark Henderson

Book Overview

In recent years knowledge of our genetic code has changed our understanding of life on Earth. New genetic technologies are transforming the way we live and promise treatments for otherwise incurable diseases. But these advances are also generating controversy, particularly surrounding issues such as cloning and designer babies.
In 50 Genetics Ideas, Mark Henderson distils the central ideas of genetics in a series of clear and concise essays...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1847246710
• ISBN13: 9781847246714
• Release Date: April 2009
• Publisher: Quercus Publishing
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 1.14 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 8.5" x 11.0"

Customer Reviews

genetics will not change the world very fast

This is a really good basic book. It is arranged in four page increments, with little sidebars of information, so it is 200 pages of information plus index and glossary. The information is basic and presented in very simple terms. He touches on the morality that people argue about, presenting the basic problems without making claims for or against either side. The end result is to realize that genetics will not change the world very fast, there is too many intricate chemical processes to be figured out. A car or washing machine is complex enough, and this is a lot more complex. This is why hybrids are only grown from established organisms, selecting for good qualities and hope that the bad stuff is avoided. This is also why corrections will be easier through diet or lifestyle. Phenylkentonuria (PKU) is well controlled by diet and that is just one example of a genetic correction by diet. More will be developed like this to improve our lives as genetitists learn what is causing problems genetically.