Evolutionary Origins of Life and Death

The book "Why We Die: The Evolution of Death" by Pierre M. Durand explores the evolutionary mystery of why individuals would actively kill themselves by examining life and death in the earliest cellular life. He synthesizes cellular studies of life and death, revealing that life and death exhibit features of coevolution, and that programmed cell death is essential for sustaining life.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 232 pages
\n Publication date: 09 December 2020
\n Publisher: The University of Chicago Press
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The enigmatic question of why an individual would willingly take their own life has long puzzled evolutionary scientists. In his groundbreaking book, Pierre M. Durand delves deep into the realm of life and death in the earliest cellular organisms, offering a compelling answer to this enduring puzzle. Through meticulous examination, Durand reveals that cell death serves as a captivating lens through which to explore the intricate interconnectedness of life and death, shedding light on the evolutionary dynamics at play. It is a widely accepted truth that one cannot exist without the other, yet the precise manner in which this interplay unfolds throughout evolutionary history remains a subject of intense investigation. Philosophers, theorists, experimentalists, and genomic researchers have all contributed to our understanding of these two processes, yet a comprehensive integration of information from these diverse disciplines has yet to be achieved.

In his remarkable work, Durand takes on the challenge of synthesizing cellular studies of life and death, focusing on the origin of life and the evolutionary significance of programmed cellular death. The outcome of his analysis is nothing short of exciting and unexpected: life and death exhibit remarkable features of coevolution. The evolution of more complex cellular life relied on the coadaptation of traits that promote life and those that promote death. It is ironic to note that, in many circumstances, programmed cell death plays a vital role in sustaining life.

Durand's insights into the complex interplay between life and death shed light on the intricate mechanisms that govern the natural world. His work challenges our preconceived notions and provides a fresh perspective on the origins and evolution of life. By integrating information from various disciplines, Durand has made a significant contribution to our understanding of the complex tapestry of life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the mysteries of evolution and the wonders of cellular life.

\n Weight: 454g\n
Dimension: 157 x 235 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780226747620\n \n