The Selfish Gene

“The Selfish Gene” by Richard Dawkins is a landmark book that has become a classic in the field of evolutionary biology. Originally published over 40 years ago, it remains influential and relevant today, having been translated into numerous languages and earning critical acclaim worldwide.

In the book, Dawkins presents a revolutionary perspective on evolution, offering a gene-centered view that emphasizes the role of genes as the fundamental unit of evolution. He argues that organisms can be understood as vehicles for the replication of genes, placing the focus on the transmission of genetic information through generations.

Dawkins’s writing is characterized by its imagination, power, and stylistic brilliance, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a wide audience. “The Selfish Gene” not only popularized the insights of Neo-Darwinism but also sparked significant debate and inspired new avenues of research in biology.

This 40th-anniversary edition includes a new epilogue from the author, reflecting on the enduring relevance of the book’s ideas in contemporary evolutionary biology. It also features the original prefaces and foreword, as well as extracts from early reviews, providing readers with a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Dawkins’s groundbreaking work.

As part of the Oxford Landmark Science series, “The Selfish Gene” is recognized as a must-read classic of modern science writing, shaping the way we think about evolution and genetics.