Dominant Character: The Radical Science and Restless Politics of J.B.S. Haldane

J.B.S. Haldane was a geneticist who revolutionized our understanding of evolution, and was also a staunch Communist. This book explores his life in detail, and examines the questions he raised about the intersections of genetics and politics, which resonate more strongly today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2021
Publisher: Atlantic Books

A captivating and insightful book, "A Dominant Character: J.B.S. Haldane, Scientist, Communist, and Spy" has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. It has been recognized as the Book of the Year by esteemed publications such as The Economist, Guardian, New Statesman, Wall Street Journal, and New York Times. Furthermore, it has been shortlisted for prestigious awards such as the Duff Cooper Prize, the Elizabeth Longford Prize for Historical Biography, and the British Society for the History of Science Hughes Prize.

This remarkable work delves into the life of J.B.S. Haldane, a prominent and enigmatic scientist of the 20th century. Haldane's life was characterized by a remarkable blend of brilliance, controversy, and complexity. He is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to genetics, which revolutionized our understanding of evolution. However, his peers regarded him as a polymath, recognizing his vast knowledge and expertise in a wide range of fields, including mathematics, physics, and philosophy.

Haldane's life was marked by a series of remarkable experiences and achievements. He served in the trenches during World War I and in Spain during the Civil War, gaining valuable firsthand knowledge of the horrors of war. He also conducted daring experiments upon himself, pushing the boundaries of human physiology and genetics. His secret research for the British Admiralty during World War II further added to his reputation as a brilliant scientist and a risk-taker.

In addition to his scientific accomplishments, Haldane was a staunch communist and political activist. His political beliefs and activism played a significant role in his public profile and led him into trouble and even suspicions of spying for the Soviets. He wrote extensively on science and politics for the layman, in newspapers and magazines, and gave speeches in town halls and on the radio, making him as famous in Britain as Einstein.

"A Dominant Character" by Peter Frankopan offers a comprehensive and detailed account of Haldane's life. The book explores his boisterous personality, his intellectual pursuits, and the profound questions he raised about the intersections of genetics, politics, and society. Haldane's life was marked by a series of paradoxes, including his unwavering commitment to communism despite his privileged upbringing and his close association with the British establishment.

The book also examines the impact of Haldane's ideas and activism on the 20th-century world. His contributions to genetics and his advocacy for social justice and equality have left a lasting legacy. Haldane's life serves as a reminder of the power of science to shape our understanding of the world and the importance of engaging with the broader social and political context in which we live.

In conclusion, "A Dominant Character: J.B.S. Haldane, Scientist, Communist, and Spy" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science, politics, and society. It offers a captivating and insightful portrayal of a remarkable scientist and a complex individual who left an indelible mark on the 20th century. Through his life and ideas, Haldane reminds us of the importance of intellectual curiosity, social responsibility, and the pursuit of knowledge in a world that is constantly evolving.

Weight: 374g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786492845
Edition number: Main