Genetics in Minutes (Book)

Genetics in Minutes, written by Tom Jackson, is a work from the "Popular Science" and "Minutes Inside" series. Presented under the subtitle 200 Core Concepts Explained Instantly, the book introduces 200 concepts in genetics accompanied by visual illustrations. It addresses topics such as the origin and biological foundations of life.

Subject

The book focuses on fundamental questions about life and our existence. It examines questions such as what life is, how living organisms develop from a single cell, how many different organisms we share our planet with, what causes diversity on Earth, why species become extinct, and whether the secrets of DNA and RNA remain undiscovered. It also explores how genetic codes influence our lives and behaviors, the connection between our genetics and intelligence, what genetically modified organisms are, whether viruses are alive, and what cancer is.

Themes

The themes explored in the book revolve around the 200 concepts of genetics. These include the origin of life, cells, DNA, chromosomes, the human genome, inheritance, and natural selection. Additional biological foundations examined in the work include stem cells and gene therapies, cloning, genetic engineering, evolution through artificial selection, sex, classification, and ecology.

Style and Narrative Features

As part of the "Minutes Inside" series, the book follows a structure that explains 200 core concepts. Visuals are used throughout the narrative to support and clarify the topics discussed.