The Encyclopaedia Britannica guide to genetics : the most exciting developments in life sciences : from Mendel to the Human Genome Project

From Gregor Mendel’s first experiments with peas during the eighteenth century to the announcement of the Human Genome Project in 1998, genetics have become the key to cracking many of the scientific ideas of our age. How much do our genes determine our personalities? What makes us different from other species? What is revealed behind the controversy of genetically modified food or stem cell research? This volume is the ideal companion for students or general popular science readers who wish to know the facts behind the latest research and discoveries. Cover Page......Page 1 Contents......Page 7 List of Illustrations......Page 9 Introduction......Page 11 Part 1 Building Life......Page 20 1 Molecules of Life......Page 21 2 Understanding DNA and Genes......Page 52 Part 2 Genetics Through Time......Page 68 3 Historical Background......Page 69 4 Heredity and Evolution......Page 96 5 Evidence for Evolution......Page 140 Part 3 Genetics and Human Health......Page 230 6 Human Genetics......Page 231 7 Human Genetic Disease......Page 248 Part 4 Genetics Today and Tomorrow......Page 287 8 Animal and Plant Breeding......Page 288 9 Biotechnology......Page 316 Part 5 Controversies in Genetics......Page 342 10 Etical Issues in Genetics......Page 343 C......Page 378 H......Page 379 P......Page 380 W......Page 381 B......Page 382 C......Page 383 E......Page 384 G......Page 385 H......Page 386 M......Page 387 N......Page 388 R......Page 389 T......Page 390 Y......Page 391 An invaluable introduction to the major ideas, discoveries, and personalities in the history of our quest for the origins of life