Description: The New Biology argues that mechanical reductionism, though helpful in answering many biological questions, cannot on its own explain complex biological systems. Promoting a more holistic approach, the authors contend that both mechanistic and organicist views are invaluable frameworks for understanding life.
Brief description: Michael J. Reiss is Professor of Science Education at University College London, a member of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, President of the International Society for Science and Religion, and former Director of Education at the Royal Society.
Review Quotes: This is an informative, clearly written, and timely exploration of the historical roots and the current uses and misuses of the notions of mechanism and organicism. The insights in this book could lead to richer methodologies and better coping mechanisms across health, gender, race, ecological sustainability, and religion.--Eva Jablonka, author of Picturing the Mind: Consciousness through the Lens of Evolution