Books

Short works

Books : reviews

Randolph M. Nesse, George C. Williams.
Evolution and Healing: the new science of Darwinian medicine (== Why We Get Sick).
Phoenix. 1994

Most people are aware of the basic Darwinian principles, but now, in a pioneering new examination of evolution and medicine, Dr Nesse and Professor Williams suggest that many aspects of ‘disease’ are actually side effects of the evolutionary process. In fact, the perpetual battle between the human race and its enemies – viruses, bacteria and parasites – is indeed an evolutionary arms race, in which we humans need to use our knowledge of natural selection in order to stay ahead.

Evolution and Healing is a fascinating and totally absorbing account that will not only challenge present-day medical practices, but will change the way everyone thinks about their own bodies in health as well as in disease.