In "The Gene: An Intimate History," Siddhartha Mukherjee weaves together a compelling narrative that explores the profound impact of genetics on our identities and destinies. This journey spans from ancient discoveries to modern science, unraveling the stories of legendary geneticists and their groundbreaking findings. Mukherjee delves into the ethical dilemmas and societal implications of genetic manipulation, leaving readers questioning what it truly means to be human. With rich anecdotes and scientific insights, the book invites you to reflect on your own genetic legacy. Can our genes dictate our future, or do we hold the power to shape our own narratives?
By Siddhartha Mukherjee
Published: 2016
"The gene is a word that has acquired many meanings."
The #1 NEW YORK TIMES Bestseller The basis for the PBS Ken Burns Documentary The Gene: An Intimate History Now includes an excerpt from Siddhartha Mukherjee’s new book Song of the Cell! From the Pulitzer Prize–winning author of The Emperor of All Maladies—a fascinating history of the gene and “a magisterial account of how human minds have laboriously, ingeniously picked apart what makes us tick” (Elle). “Sid Mukherjee has the uncanny ability to bring together science, history, and the future in a way that is understandable and riveting, guiding us through both time and the mystery of life itself.” —Ken Burns “Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee dazzled readers with his Pulitzer Prize-winning The Emperor of All Maladies in 2010. That achievement was evidently just a warm-up for his virtuoso performance in The Gene: An Intimate History, in which he braids science, history, and memoir into an epic with all the range and biblical thunder of Paradise Lost” (The New York Times). In this biography Mukherjee brings to life the quest to understand human heredity and its surprising influence on our lives, personalities, identities, fates, and choices. “Mukherjee expresses abstract intellectual ideas through emotional stories…[and] swaddles his medical rigor with rhapsodic tenderness, surprising vulnerability, and occasional flashes of pure poetry” (The Washington Post). Throughout, the story of Mukherjee’s own family—with its tragic and bewildering history of mental illness—reminds us of the questions that hang over our ability to translate the science of genetics from the laboratory to the real world. In riveting and dramatic prose, he describes the centuries of research and experimentation—from Aristotle and Pythagoras to Mendel and Darwin, from Boveri and Morgan to Crick, Watson and Franklin, all the way through the revolutionary twenty-first century innovators who mapped the human genome. “A fascinating and often sobering history of how humans came to understand the roles of genes in making us who we are—and what our manipulation of those genes might mean for our future” (Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel), The Gene is the revelatory and magisterial history of a scientific idea coming to life, the most crucial science of our time, intimately explained by a master. “The Gene is a book we all should read” (USA TODAY).
Showing 8 of 29 similar books
Michael Pollan is a renowned American author and journalist, celebrated for his insightful explorations of food, agriculture, and human culture. His groundbreaking book, "The Omnivore's Dilemma," published in 2006, critically examines the complexities of the modern food industry and has become a seminal work in food studies. Pollan's engaging narrative style and thorough research have earned him a place on The New York Times Best Seller list multiple times. In addition to his literary contributions, he is also a professor of journalism at the University of California, Berkeley. Pollan's work continues to influence public discourse on sustainable eating and the ethical implications of food choices.
Neil deGrasse Tyson is a renowned astrophysicist, author, and science communicator, best known for his work in popularizing science through various media. As the director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York City, he has played a pivotal role in bringing astronomical discoveries to the public. Tyson has authored several bestselling books, including "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry" and "The Pluto Files," which have made complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. He is also the host of the popular science TV show "Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey," a continuation of Carl Sagan's groundbreaking series. Tyson's contributions have significantly enhanced public understanding and appreciation of the universe.
Jan Losert is a visionary author and digital design expert, renowned for his contributions to the intersection of technology and creativity. His most significant work includes co-authoring "Design Systems Handbook," which has become a seminal guide for creating cohesive and efficient design frameworks. Losert's expertise extends to his role as a speaker and educator, where he passionately shares his insights on user experience and interface design. In addition to his literary achievements, he co-founded several successful startups, leveraging his deep understanding of design to drive innovation. His work continues to influence and inspire both emerging and established designers worldwide.
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
Charlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.
Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.
Patrick Collison is an Irish entrepreneur and co-founder of Stripe, a global technology company that enables businesses to accept online payments. Along with his brother John, Patrick has transformed Stripe into one of the most valuable private tech companies in the world. Stripe’s innovative approach to online payments has made it a key player in the financial technology space. Collison is known for his deep interest in science, technology, and policy, often engaging in conversations about innovation, progress, and how to improve societal outcomes. He is an advocate for scientific advancement and the intersection of technology and public policy.
Nassim Nicholas Taleb is a Lebanese-American author, scholar, and risk analyst, best known for his work on uncertainty, probability, and risk. His books, including The Black Swan and Antifragile, explore how rare and unpredictable events shape the world and how individuals and systems can become more resilient to shocks. Taleb’s insights on risk management have influenced fields ranging from finance to medicine, and he is known for his outspoken criticism of conventional wisdom. His ideas about randomness, decision-making, and the limitations of human knowledge have made him a leading thinker in modern economics and philosophy.
Showing 8 of 18 related collections
“The gene is a word that has acquired many meanings.”
The Gene
By Siddhartha Mukherjee
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Siddhartha Mukherjee is an acclaimed physician, researcher, and author best known for his works that explore the intersection of medicine and the human experience. His Pulitzer Prize-winning book, "The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer," presents a comprehensive history of cancer, weaving together science and personal narratives. Mukherjee's subsequent works, including "The Gene: An Intimate History," delve into the complexities of genetics and its implications for humanity. He serves as an oncologist and assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University, where he continues to engage in groundbreaking research. With a talent for making complex scientific concepts accessible, Mukherjee has established himself as a prominent voice in the field of medical literature.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Sleep Revolution," Arianna Huffington uncovers the profound impact of sleep on our health, productivity, and overall well-being. Blending science with personal anecdotes, she ignites a passionate call to reevaluate our relationship with sleep in a world that glorifies overwork. With eye-opening statistics and transformative insights, Huffington reveals how chronic sleep deprivation affects our physical and mental health. The book invites readers to embrace a culture of rest, offering practical tips for cultivating better sleep habits. Dive into this enlightening journey and discover how prioritizing sleep might just be the key to unlocking your fullest potential!
**The Compound Effect** unveils the profound power of small, consistent actions that lead to extraordinary results over time. Darren Hardy illustrates how seemingly insignificant choices accumulate to shape our lives, revealing the hidden dynamics of success and failure. Through compelling anecdotes and practical strategies, he empowers readers to take charge of their habits and make intentional decisions. As you traverse the journey of incremental change, you’ll discover that mastery lies in persistence and patience. Ready to unlock your potential? Dive in and unleash the transformative power of the compound effect!
In "How Google Works", Eric Schmidt and Jonathan Rosenberg unveil the inner workings of one of the world's most innovative companies. Delving into the intersection of technology, business strategy, and culture, they explore how flexibility and creativity fuel Google's success. The authors share insider anecdotes and pivotal lessons about fostering collaboration and embracing change in a fast-paced digital landscape. You’ll discover the vital role data plays in decision-making and how to cultivate a "smart creatives" mindset. Prepare to be inspired by the blueprint of a company that has revolutionized not just the tech industry, but the very way we navigate information itself.
In "Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow," Yuval Noah Harari explores the future possibilities for humanity as we evolve beyond our current limitations. Delving into themes of artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and the quest for immortality, he provokes thought about what may come after Homo sapiens. As society increasingly turns to technology for solutions, he questions the implications of our pursuit of happiness and god-like powers. Will we augment our bodies and minds, or lose our humanity in the process? This provocative journey invites readers to ponder the exhilarating—and terrifying—potential of our own evolution.
In "The Gene: An Intimate History," Siddhartha Mukherjee weaves together a compelling narrative that explores the profound impact of genetics on our identities and destinies. This journey spans from ancient discoveries to modern science, unraveling the stories of legendary geneticists and their groundbreaking findings. Mukherjee delves into the ethical dilemmas and societal implications of genetic manipulation, leaving readers questioning what it truly means to be human. With rich anecdotes and scientific insights, the book invites you to reflect on your own genetic legacy. Can our genes dictate our future, or do we hold the power to shape our own narratives?
In "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry," Neil deGrasse Tyson takes readers on a whirlwind journey through the cosmos, unveiling the complex wonders of the universe in bite-sized pieces. He distills complex theories about black holes, dark matter, and the Big Bang into accessible narratives that spark curiosity and awe. With his signature wit and clarity, Tyson makes the grand tapestry of the universe relatable, inviting readers to ponder their place within it. This captivating exploration not only enlightens but also ignites a sense of wonder about the infinite possibilities of existence. Are you ready to embrace the mysteries of the universe, one brief chapter at a time?
In "Sippy Cups Are Not for Chardonnay," author Stefanie Wilder-Taylor delivers a hilariously candid exploration of motherhood's raw realities. With wit and unapologetic honesty, she contrasts the glamorous pre-baby life with the chaotic, wine-stained world of parenting. Through laugh-out-loud anecdotes and relatable confessions, Wilder-Taylor reveals the joys and absurdities of raising children. This book is a refreshing reminder that while motherhood is messy, it’s also filled with moments of pure love and laughter. Get ready to embrace the chaos and discover why sippy cups just won’t cut it anymore!
In 'The Better Angels of Our Nature', Steven Pinker explores the decline of violence throughout human history, revealing an unexpected trend towards peace. He argues that, contrary to popular belief, we are living in one of the most peaceful eras in our existence, with statistical evidence to back his claims. Pinker delves into the psychological and societal forces that have led humanity to embrace empathy and cooperation over brutality. This thought-provoking narrative challenges readers to reconsider their views on human nature and progress. Are we truly becoming more civilized, or is this just a temporary lull in our violent tendencies?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
