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Evolution Unleashed
Article

Evolution Unleashed

Is evolutionary science due for a major overhaul – or is talk of “revolution” misguided?

Aeon, 2018

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Editorial Rating

7

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  • Scientific
  • Background
  • Hot Topic

Recommendation

The next generation does not inherit the changes that happen during their parents’ lives. Or do they? A new area of research, epigenetics, challenges the idea that life experiences do not influence offspring. While a body builder does not give birth to a muscular baby, the exercise might influence the baby’s genes. Evolutionary biologist Kevin Laland explores new epigenetics research and scientists’ response. This article will engage anyone interested in the “evolution revolution,” and how decisions in the present can change lives in the future.

Take-Aways

  • Epigenetics is the study of gene modification and regulation.
  • Changes during an organism’s lifetime can pass on to future generations.
  • Extended evolutionary synthesis, or EES, emphasizes the importance of developmental processes.

About the Author

Kevin Laland is a professor of behavioral and evolutionary biology at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and leads the extended evolutionary synthesis research program. 


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