The Selfish Gene

About “The Selfish Gene”

The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins, published in 1976, presents an influential perspective on evolution from the gene's point of view. It describes organisms as vehicles for genetic replication, emphasizing the role of genes as the central units of evolutionary change. The book introduced Neo-Darwinian ideas to a broad audience and sparked significant discussion within the biological community. It encouraged new research and remains relevant four decades after its initial release. This 40th anniversary edition includes a new epilogue from Dawkins, original prefaces, a foreword, and excerpts from early reviews. Part of the Oxford Landmark Science series, the book is considered a classic that shaped modern scientific thought.