The Selfish Gene
Richard Dawkins · 1976
Lindy Score
50 yrs
Age
7
Endorsers
Why it endured
Dawkins' argument that evolution is best understood from the gene's perspective — that organisms are merely survival machines for their genes. Introduced the concept of the 'meme'. Changed how we think about evolution, biology, and human behavior.
What they're saying
7 people recommend this book
“Matt Ridley and Richard Dawkins were hugely influential for me. The Selfish Gene is the book that helped me understand evolution at a deep level.”
Podcast
“Richard Dawkins is a brilliant thinker. The Selfish Gene is a must-read for understanding life and evolution.”
“The Selfish Gene changed how I understood biology and human nature. Dawkins is one of the great explainers.”
GatesNotes
“The Selfish Gene is one of the few modern science books that will still be read in a century.”
Antifragile
“Dawkins' Selfish Gene is one of the most important science books ever written — it permanently changed how I see life.”
Making Sense Podcast
“The Selfish Gene is the book that made evolutionary biology accessible to the general reader. Dawkins at his best.”
Interview
“Richard Dawkins explained the mechanism of life in a way that made evolution undeniable and beautiful.”