The Species That Changed Itself How Prosperity Reshaped Humanity
The Species That Changed Itself: How Prosperity Reshaped Humanity by Edwin Gale is a thought-provoking exploration published by National Geographic Books on March 29, 2022. This 384-page work delves into the unique ability of humans to create and adapt their environments, contrasting our species with others that merely adapt to their surroundings. Gale presents a comprehensive examination of how advancements in knowledge and technology have transformed not only our world but also the human phenotype, influencing both our physical and mental characteristics.
Readers will find a rich tapestry of insights that intertwine biology, social anthropology, epidemiology, and history. The book addresses various aspects of human life, including changes in health, longevity, and societal structures, while posing the intriguing question of whether we are a self-domesticated species. Gale’s analysis covers a wide range of topics, from the impact of food production and reproduction to the evolution of intelligence and behavior. This edition invites readers to reflect on the profound ways in which prosperity has reshaped humanity throughout history.
Official synopsis Publisher
An inquisitive, expansive and fascinating exploration of humans as creatures of our own making
Other species adapt to their environments; we alone create ours. Over generations, we have remade the world to suit ourselves – using improved knowledge and technology to confront the traditional scourges – and for the most part we enjoy prosperity beyond the dreams of our ancestors. What’s more, in changing our world, we have also reshaped the human phenotype – the interaction between genes and environment that moulds our bodies and minds.
The results can be seen in the streets of our post-industrial cities. We grow taller and heavier than before, and live longer. We think and behave differently, and die from once rare diseases. Our experiences of life have been transformed, and in turn so have our societies.
Weaving together biology, social anthropology, epidemiology and history, Edwin Gale examines the shifting physical and mental dimensions of our lives, from ageing to illness, food production to reproduction, designer bodies to IQ tests, and asks: are we a self-domesticated species?
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “The Species That Changed Itself How Prosperity Reshaped Humanity” about?
Who is the author of “The Species That Changed Itself How Prosperity Reshaped Humanity”?
When was “The Species That Changed Itself How Prosperity Reshaped Humanity” published?
What is the ISBN for “The Species That Changed Itself How Prosperity Reshaped Humanity”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
