In 1976, a young zoology lecturer at Oxford University published his first book. Powerfully encapsulating a gene's eye view of life, The Selfish Gene rapidly became deeply influential both within biology and associated disciplines, and in wider intellectual debate, catapulting its author to fame.
Richard Dawkins went on to publish a string of international bestsellers praised both for their scientific insights and for their brilliant literary style. He has become a major public figure, known as much for his high-profile role in debate as a passionate advocate for science and champion of rationalism as for his writings. Dawkins is widely regarded as one of the most influential thinkers in the world today.
This collection of essays, published to coincide with the 30th anniversary of The Selfish Gene, reflects on Richard Dawkins' contribution and influence as scientist, rationalist, writer and public intellectual. Edited by Alan Grafen and Mark Ridley, former graduate students of Dawkins and noted biologists in their own right, the collection brings together contributions from scientists, philosophers, and writers and includes both thoughtful analysis and personal reminiscences. Together they build up a sense of the range and depth of Dawkins' influence – stretching across biology, philosophy, evolutionary psychology, artificial life, and debates on religion – and explore the developments that have arisen from them.
There are critical notes here too, from several of those who have maintained continued constructive debate with Dawkins. This lively and varied collection reflects not only the influence of a modern thinker, but also some of the issues at the forefront of modern intellectual debate.