Peter Richerson - Not by Genes Alone. How Culture Transformed Human Evolution

"Not by Genes Alone: How Culture Transformed Human Evolution" - Redefining Human Adaptation

"Not by Genes Alone" by Peter J. Richerson and Robert Boyd offers a groundbreaking perspective on human evolution, challenging conventional understanding and proposing a compelling new paradigm. The authors argue that culture, far from being merely a byproduct of our genes, is a fundamental driver of our evolutionary success. They present a compelling case that our unique ability to adapt, our complex social structures, and our dominance over the planet stem from a specific evolutionary trajectory that intertwines biology and culture. Richerson and Boyd dismantle the age-old nature-nurture debate, demonstrating that these two forces are inextricably intertwined, shaping who we are and how we interact with the world. Through a fascinating exploration of diverse cultural phenomena - from the ingenuity of kayaks to the intricate complexities of corporations - the authors illustrate the power of culture as a driving force in human evolution. They challenge the notion of culture as a mere "handmaiden" to genes, instead proposing it as an integral element of our biology, as fundamental as bipedal locomotion. "Not by Genes Alone" is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of human evolution. It provides a compelling narrative that blends scientific rigor with captivating examples, revealing the profound impact of culture on our species' history and its ongoing evolution. **Peter J. Richerson** is a distinguished professor of environmental science and policy at the University of California, Davis, known for his significant contributions to the field of cultural evolution.

Wydawnictwo	The University of Chicago Press
tytuł oryginału	Not by Genes Alone. How Culture Transformed Human Evolution
data wydania	czerwiec 2006 (data przybliżona)
ISBN	9780226712123
liczba stron	342
kategoria	nauki społeczne (psychologia, socjologia, itd.)
język	angielski