How is a tiny fertilized egg able to turn itself into a human being? How can an acorn transform itself into an oak tree? Through a highly original synthesis of science and art, this book vividly describes the revolution in our understanding of how plants and animals develop. It draws on a wide range of examples and material--from flowers growing petals instead of sex organs, and flies that develop an extra pair of wings, to works by Leonardo and Magritte--to provide general readers with a lively and clear explanation of the ...
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How is a tiny fertilized egg able to turn itself into a human being? How can an acorn transform itself into an oak tree? Through a highly original synthesis of science and art, this book vividly describes the revolution in our understanding of how plants and animals develop. It draws on a wide range of examples and material--from flowers growing petals instead of sex organs, and flies that develop an extra pair of wings, to works by Leonardo and Magritte--to provide general readers with a lively and clear explanation of the meaning of genes. The book demonstrates that organisms develop through an interactive dialogue, with no clear separation between plan and execution, much as an artist might paint a picture.
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