Genes in Conflict

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In evolution, most genes survive and spread wihin populations because they increase the ability of their hosts (or their close relatives) to survive and reproduce. But some genes spread in spite of being harmful to the host organism - by distorting their own transmission to the next generation, or by changing how the host behaves towards relatives. As a consequence, different genes in a single organism can have diametrically opposed interests and adaptations.

Covering all species from yeast to humans, this is the first book to tell the story of selfish genetic elements, those continually appearing stretches of DNA that act narrowly to advance their own replication at the expense of the larger organism. As the author shows, these selfish genes are a universal feature of life with pervasive effects, including numerous counter-adaptations. Their spread has created a whole world of socio-genetic interactions within individuals, usually completely hidden from sight. This book introduces the subject of selfish genetic elements in all its aspects, from molecular and genetic to behavioural and evolutionary.