Elof Carlson, a distinguished geneticist and historian of science, explores the evolution of genetic theory and its societal implications through a series of influential works. His writings delve into the history of genetics, the impact of radiation, and the public's trust in science. Carlson's critical analysis covers significant figures and ideas, including H. J. Muller and Gregor Mendel, while addressing how scientific advancements shape our understanding of identity and humanity.
This latest book by Elof Carlson (The Unfit) is a first history of classical genetics, the era in which the chromosome theory of heredity was proposed and developed. Highly illustrated and based heavily on early 20th century original sources, the book traces the roots of genetics in breeding analysis and studies of cytology, evolution, and reproductive biology that began in Europe but were synthesized in the United States through new Ph.D. programs and expanded academic funding. Carlson argues that, influenced largely by new technologies and instrumentation, the life sciences progressed though incremental change rather than paradigm shifts, and he describes how molecular biology emerged from the key ideas and model systems of classical genetics. Readable and original, this narrative will interest historians and science educators as well as today's practitioners of genetics.
Exploring the nature of scientific inquiry, this book delves into how science is conducted through discovery and experimentation. It addresses the divide between those who embrace science and those who reject or fear it, highlighting concerns over its implications for society, including environmental issues and ethical dilemmas. By examining both basic and applied sciences, the text seeks to foster a deeper understanding of science's role and its potential consequences in the modern world.
What is Science? A Guide for Those Who Love It, Hate It, or Fear It, provides the reader with ways science has been done through discovery, exploration, experimentation and other reason-based approaches.
The handbook guides readers in constructing intellectual pedigrees while exploring the historical connections in the life sciences. Using Hermann Joseph Muller as a focal point, it traces the transmission of knowledge across Europe and into the American Colonies, revealing influences on prominent figures like Huxley and Darwin, as well as Agassiz and Galileo. Analyzing 60 additional pedigrees, the author highlights the significant impact of a few key scientists, illustrating the limited pool of scholars in universities before the mid-19th century.