Natural Selection Domains, Levels, and Challenges [Paperback]

In this work, George C. Williams--one of evolutionary biology's most distinguished scholars--examines the mechanisms and meaning of natural selection in evolution. Williams offers his own perspective on modern evolutionary theory, including discussions of the gene as the unit of selection, clade selection and macroevolution, diversity within and among populations, stasis, and other timely and provocative topics. In dealing with the levels-of-selection controversy, he urges a pervasive form of the replicator-vehicle distinction. Natural selection, he argues, takes place in the separatedomainsof information and matter. Levels-of-selection questions, consequently, require different theoretical devices depending on the domains being discussed. In addressing these topics, Williams presents a synthesis of his three decades of research and creative thought which have contributed greatly to evolutionary biology in this century.

1. A Philosophical Position
2. The Gene As a Unit of Selection
3. Clade Selection and Macroevolution
4. Levels of Selection among Interactors
5. Optimization and Kindred Concepts
6. Historicity and Constraint
7. Diversity within and between Clades
8. Some Recent Controversies
9. Stasis
10. Other Challenges and Anomalies

In 1966, Williams published a book with the titleAdaptation and Natural Selection: A Critique of Some Current Evolutionary Thoughtthat became a classic. It is still widely read and widely recommended to students. This new book could appropriately carry the same title. Comparing the two measures a quarter-century of progress in evolutionary thought . . . . The book constructively critiques central evolutionary ideas. It should be published with the 1966 book in one volume. Together they make a devastating, and exciting, read. --Science

Ranges widely, and many kinds of specialist could sample it for inspiration and fresh thinking. Only the futurelÃ