The Selfish Gene Book Summary

In Richard Dawkins' groundbreaking work, "The Selfish Gene," the concept of evolution is reimagined through the lens of genes as the primary unit of natural selection. Dawkins provocatively argues that behaviors once perceived as altruistic are often driven by genetic self-interest. The book introduces the idea of memes, exploring how cultural evolution parallels biological evolution. With vivid examples and thought-provoking insights, Dawkins challenges readers to reconsider the motivations behind their actions and the fabric of life itself. Will this lens of selfishness reshape your understanding of humanity and its place in the universe?

By Richard Dawkins

Published: 1989

"We are survival machines—robot vehicles blindly programmed to preserve the selfish molecules known as genes."

Book Review of The Selfish Gene

Science need not be dull and bogged down by jargon, as Richard Dawkins proves in this entertaining look at evolution. The themes he takes up are the concepts of altruistic and selfish behaviour; the genetical definition of selfish interest; the evolution of aggressive behaviour; kinshiptheory; sex ratio theory; reciprocal altruism; deceit; and the natural selection of sex differences. 'Should be read, can be read by almost anyone. It describes with great skill a new face of the theory of evolution.' W.D. Hamilton, Science

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We are survival machines—robot vehicles blindly programmed to preserve the selfish molecules known as genes.

The Selfish Gene

By Richard Dawkins