How Did Life End Up With Us? - The Secrets of Life: From Big Bang to Trump

Ss O'Connor

Sinopse

Why does the gene behave like a hedge fund manager? Why are mutations like a gambling scam? Why does nothing ever become top dog in life and win forever? Humans only arrived after 99.99% of the time there’s been life on earth. So what was here before us? And how did these species, and the evolutionary process that created them, end up with the unpromising creatures that were our ancestors?In this, the first book of The Secrets of Life quartet, SS O’Connor brings his outsider’s, questioning eye to reveal the great forces that lie behind life: from the laws that arose with Big Bang, through to the ‘decisions’ that organisms make to determine their chances.But how did everything come about? And what made some life forms succeed - while others would join the 99.9% of species that appeared, yet went on to become extinct? The story goes right back to our single-celled forebears - the only things that were on the planet for 80% of its existence, and then continues as it lays out the ways that successive transmissions built increasing complexity, and how the resulting species found their synergistic ways of coexisting. In an easy-going, conversational style, O'Connor explains in lay-man's language how the gene is the great conductor of life’s orchestra, how it helped millions of life forms to refine themselves - yet why it also sees failure, death and extinctions as opportunities rather than disasters. Last, the book tells the story of the men who unpicked the mysteries, what they meant by fitness and ‘the fittest’, but why they continued to be baffled by organisms that broke the rules by helping each other. Why would some even choose to be sterile when producing the next generation was the overriding compulsion in life? And why would the answer to this question explain why altruism is the proof for the ‘gene-based theory of evolution’ - and why cooperation was to become the strongest force in life?

Disponível desde: 31/03/2023.

Ciências Sociais e Humanidades

Outros livros que poderiam interessá-lo

Fatal Conceit The: Book Summary...

Briefly Summaries

This is a concise summary and analysis of The Fatal Conceit, by Friedrich A. Hayek.
 
It is not the original book and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Friedrich A. Hayek.
Ideal those seeking a quick and insightful overview.
 
The Fatal Conceit delves into the origins and evolution of human society, exploring how spontaneous order and cultural norms emerge organically to create complex systems of cooperation and progress. Challenging the belief that central planning and rational design can surpass the adaptive efficiencies of free markets and traditional practices, the book argues that such "fatal conceit" undermines the very foundations of civilization. This work presents a compelling critique of collectivism, advocating for the preservation of decentralized systems as the key to human flourishing.

Ver livro

Burning Horizon - British...

Julian Whippy

“Burning Horizon reminds us how British and American servicemen and women train together, learn together, and, when called upon, fight together to defeat threats to our common values.” -General James N. Mattis, US Marine Corps (retired)Codenamed Operation Telic, the British component of the invasion of Iraq in 2003 was the largest gathering of British troops since the Second World War.  While the British public prepared for the worst as its soldiers were facing weapons of mass destruction, most servicemen and women were under no illusion that they were invading Iraq to rid the people of Saddam Hussein.  While much has been said about WMD and Tony Blair's government, not nearly enough has been heard from those men and women that took part in Operation Telic. Based upon dozens of veteran interviews, personal diaries and archival material, this book tells their stories, in their own words.  From controlling the vast Allied Air Forces at 34,000 feet in an AWACS plane down to submariners beneath the warm waves of the Persian Gulf firing Tomahawk Cruise missiles, from the steaming hot turret of a Challenger Tank as it is peppered with RPGs, to being on your belly in a sandstorm disarming unexploded bombs — these veteran accounts cover the whole spectrum of experiences.  Polarized public opinion and the post-war media portrayal of the war has detracted from what was achieved by these forces, when tasked to do so, often with insufficient or inadequate resources. These are their stories of courage, fortitude, pride, and brotherhood amidst the harsh realities of modern asymmetric warfare.

Ver livro

Lockerbie - A Father’s Search...

Peter Biddulph, Jim Swire

Now a Major Sky TV Series starring Colin Firth 
The destruction of Pan Am Flight 103 over the Scottish town of Lockerbie in December 1988 was the largest attack on Britain since World War Two. 259 passengers and 11 townsfolk of Lockerbie were murdered. Libyan Abdelbaset al-Megrahi was convicted of the crime. He maintained his innocence until his death in 2012. 
Among the passengers was Flora, beloved daughter of Dr Jim Swire. Jim accepted American claims that Libya was responsible, but during the Lockerbie Trial he began to distrust key witnesses and supposed firm evidence. Since then it has been revealed that the USA paid millions of dollars to two central identification witnesses, and the only forensic evidence central to the prosecution has been discredited. 
The book takes us along Dr. Swire’s journey as his initial grief and loss becomes a campaign to uncover the truth behind not only a personal tragedy but one of the modern world’s most shocking events. 
'A shattering tale of grief and love' – Daily Mail

Ver livro

The Science of Getting Rich

Wallace D. Wattles

Discover the transformative principles of wealth creation in "The Science of Getting Rich" by Wallace D. Wattles, now available as an empowering audiobook. Wattles' timeless classic reveals the secrets to attaining financial abundance and living a life of prosperity. 
In this audiobook, listeners will learn how to harness the power of their thoughts and beliefs to manifest wealth and success. Wattles outlines a practical, step-by-step approach to achieving financial freedom, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, visualization, and taking inspired action. 
Perfect for anyone seeking to improve their financial situation and unlock their full potential, "The Science of Getting Rich" offers practical strategies and empowering insights that can transform lives. Whether you're struggling to make ends meet or aiming for greater financial success, this audiobook provides the tools and mindset shifts needed to create lasting abundance. 
So, if you're ready to rewrite your financial story and embark on a journey to prosperity, start listening to "The Science of Getting Rich" today and unlock the secrets to wealth creation and abundance. Start Listening to "The Science of Getting Rich" today!

Ver livro

Breaking Free from the Past -...

Cyrus Langfield

Breaking Free from the Past: A Simplified Guide to Embracing Resilience and Rediscovering Your Inner Strength 
Are you ready to advance in your career and fortify your understanding by successfully navigating the challenges ahead? 
In search of a thorough guide that encompasses everything you need to overcome obstacles and unlock your true potential? Look no further! 
This guide is your ultimate resource for enhancing your comprehension, applying your newfound skills, and participating in practical exercises that will prepare you for success. 
Updated to reflect the latest structures for personal growth. 
Our guide stands out for its in-depth coverage, which is crucial for your success. Topics are explored in detail, ensuring a thorough understanding rather than a superficial overview. 
Crafted with a clear layout and accessible language, our guide guarantees seamless transitions between concepts. Say goodbye to complex terminology and embrace straightforward, accurate, and beneficial content. 
So, why delay your journey? Click the BUY NOW button, secure your guide, and embark on the path to embracing resilience and rediscovering your inner strength!

Ver livro

Shang Dynasty - China's Bronze...

Rolf Hedger

The Shang Dynasty, often considered the first historically confirmed dynasty of ancient China, marked the beginning of a new era in Chinese civilization. Flourishing from around 1600 to 1046 BCE, the Shang established a highly organized society, developed a complex system of governance, and made significant advancements in art, technology, and culture. Their rise to power followed the decline of the Xia Dynasty, an era that remains shrouded in legend, with little concrete archaeological evidence to confirm its existence. The emergence of the Shang brought structure, stability, and a more defined political system, setting the foundation for future dynasties. 
According to traditional Chinese historical accounts, the Shang Dynasty was founded by Tang, a ruler known for his wisdom and leadership. He is said to have overthrown the last Xia king, who was notorious for his tyranny and misrule. This transition of power was not merely a change in leadership but a transformation of governance, as the Shang kings implemented a more centralized authority, strengthening their control over vast territories. The establishment of their capital, which shifted multiple times during the dynasty’s rule, demonstrated their adaptability and strategic planning. The most well-documented capital, Yinxu (near present-day Anyang), provides extensive archaeological evidence of Shang civilization.

Ver livro