The Epic History of Biology - Softcover

Serafini, Anthony

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0306445115 ISBN 13: 9780306445118

Publisher: Springer, 1993

Synopsis

The search for our elusive human origins and an understanding of the mysteries of the human body have challenged the most inquisitive and imaginative thinkers from Egyptian times through the twentieth century. In The Epic History of Biology, Anthony Serafini - a distinguished philosopher and historian of science - regales the reader with the triumphs and failures of the geniuses of the life sciences. The subtleties of the animal kingdom - anatomy, zoology, and reproduction - along with the complexities of the plant kingdom, have fascinated humanity as far back as 5000 years ago. Astounding ancient knowledge of the arcane curing powers of herbs as well as early experimentation with different chemical combinations for such purposes as mummification led to today's biological technology. Innovative pioneers such as Aristotle, Galen, Hippocrates, and Vesalius challenged the limits of knowledge and single-mindedly pursued their work, often in the face of blind superstition. In superb, lyrical prose Serafini recreates the ideas and theories of these revolutionaries from ancient times through today, against the backdrop of the dogma and prejudices of their time. He explores the inspired revelations that gave birth to such discoveries as the controversial theory of evolution, the humble origins of genetics, the fantastic predictions of quantum mechanics, and the infinite promise of computer technology. Even today the biological sciences are undergoing rapid and kaleidoscopic changes. Every new insight gives rise to a myriad of new ethical questions and responsibilities. The Epic History of Biology confronts these issues head on and predicts the wondrous new directions biology will follow.

About this title

About the Author:

Anthony Serafini has been a Visiting Fellow in Philosophy at Princeton University and has taught journalism at the University of Massachusetts. He is currently Associate Professor of Philosophy at Centenary College, Hackettstown, New Jersey.

About this edition

• Publisher: Springer
• Publication date: 1993
• ISBN 10: 0306445115
• ISBN 13: 9780306445118
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 406