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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A 9 page discussion of the mechanisms by which evolution occurs. Contrasts the theory of the selfish gene proposed by Richard Dawkins with that of the theory of heterozygote superiority held to by evolutionary biologists such as E. Sober. An overview of each theory is presented. The conclusion is drawn that although certain “selfish” elements do exist (such as is the case with certain highly repetitive DNA sequences) if these elements replicated to the point where it constituted the entire genome of the organism the organism would be sterile and without offspring the too successful gene would be doomed to death. Bibliography lists 10 sources.
Page Count:
9 pages (~225 words per page)
File: AM2_PPgeneNo.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
A number of theories have been proposed by evolutionary biologists to explain the manner in which species evolve. According to the now infamous theory of the "selfish
gene" by Richard Dawkins (1976) everything about our design is linked to our DNA and DNA makes up our genes. These genes are, for the most part, the same
as those found in our ancestors millions of years ago. The reason for their survival through the millennia, according to Dawkins, is their "ruthless selfishness". They always take
whatever steps are necessary in order to survive. This is done at whatever the cost and at whatever the sacrifice. To other biologists, however, Dawkins theory of the
selfish gene simply does not weigh out. They contend, in fact, that the selfish gene does not exist because evolutionary stable entities as proposed by Dawkins do not exist
(Pigliucci, 2002). One of the most articulate augments against the selfish gene theory is presented by Sober and Lewontin (1982). They use the argument of heterozygote superiority to
argue against genic selectionism (Sober and Lewontin, 1982). To understand Sober and Lewontins (1982) views on heterozygote superiority, we first must consider
the views of Richard Dawkins. Dawkins The Selfish Gene articulates his theories. According to him the selfish gene is adept at linking every behavior, no matter how simple
or complex, to a self-determined act of the replication not of us as individual human beings but as simple compilations of materials and deeds which are necessary for the replication
of our genes, our genes as independent self-determinate entities which control every aspect of our bodies, our actions and our lives. Our physiology, our mannerisms, even our belief systems
...