Human Natures : Genes, Cultures, and the Human Prospect

by Ehrlich, Paul R. (Author)

• ISBN13: 9780142000533
• ISBN10: 0142000531
• Edition: Revised
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-01-01
• Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics)

Summary

Why do we behave the way we do? Biologist Paul Ehrlich suggests that although people share a common genetic code, these genes "do not shout commands at us . . . at the very most, they whisper suggestions." He argues that human nature is not so much the result of genetic coding; rather, it is heavily influenced by cultural conditioning and environmental factors. With personal anecdotes, a well-written narrative, and clear examples, Human Naturesis a major work of synthesis and scholarship as well as a valuable primer on genetics and evolution that makes complex scientific concepts accessible to lay readers. "I doubt whether anyone will write as good a book of this sort on [human evolution] for another two or three decades." (Science) "Ehrlich's book is so well researched and so elegantly presented that it stands as one of the best introductions to human evolution in recent memory." (Publishers Weekly, starred review)

Author Biography

Paul R. Ehrlich is the Bing Professor of Population Studies and Professor of Biological Sciences at Stanford University. His books include the bestselling The Population Bomb, and he is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a recipient of numerous international honors.

Table of Contents

Preface	ix
Evolution and Us	1	(14)
Tales from the Animal House	15	(29)
Our Natures and Theirs	44	(24)
Standing Up for Ourselves	68	(20)
Bare Bones and A Few Stones	88	(20)
Evolving Brains, Evolving Minds	108	(31)
From Grooming to Gossip?	139	(25)
Blood's a Rover	164	(39)
The Dominance of Culture	203	(24)
From Seeds to Civilization	227	(26)
Gods, Dive-Bombers, and Bureaucracy	253	(27)
Lessons from Our Natures	280	(25)
Evolution and Human Values	305	(28)
Notes	333	(100)
References	433	(76)
Acknowledgments	509	(4)
Index	513