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Understanding metaphors in the life sciences / Andrew S. Reynolds

Author:
Reynolds, Andrew S., 1966-
Published:
Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2022.
Physical Description:
1 online resource (xxi, 200 pages) : digital, PDF file(s).
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Contents:
Metaphors and science -- Background metaphors : agents, machines, and information -- Genes and genomes : agents, codes, programs, blueprints, and books -- Proteins : machines, messengers, and team players -- Cells : factories, computers, and social organisms -- Evolution : natural selection, the tree of life, and selfish genes -- Ecology : the balance of nature, niches, ecosystem health, and Gaia -- Biomedicine : genetic engineering, genome editing, and cell reprogramming -- Concluding remarks: What is the significance of science's reliance on metaphor?
Summary:
Covering a range of metaphors from a diverse field of sciences, from cell and molecular biology to evolution, ecology, and biomedicine, Understanding Metaphors in the Life Sciences explores the positive and negative implications of the widespread use of metaphors in the biological and life sciences. From genetic codes, programs, and blueprints, to cell factories, survival of the fittest, the tree of life, selfish genes, and ecological niches, to genome editing with CRISPR's molecular scissors, metaphors are ubiquitous and vital components of the modern life sciences. But how exactly do metaphors help scientists to understand the objects they study? How can they mislead both scientists and laypeople alike? And what should we all understand about the implications of science's reliance on metaphorical speech and thought for objective knowledge and adequate public policy informed by science? This book will literally help you to better understand the metaphorical dimensions of science.
Subject(s):
ISBN:
9781108938778 (ebook)
9781108837286 (hardback)
9781108940498 (paperback)
Note:
Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 07 Apr 2022).
View MARC record | catkey: 37750587