Biology: A Historical Perspective Volume I

Biology: A Historical Perspective Volume I introduces students to key concepts of the science curriculum and the scientists responsible for the significant discoveries and developments within the discipline. The text also provides readers with a unique historical perspective into the accomplishments of often underrepresented scientists such as Jean Vance, Friedrich Miescher, Walther Flemming, and Edith Rebecca Saunders, among others. Each chapter begins with a brief biographical sketch of a scientist who helped shape the current understanding of a particular scientific concept. The opening chapter introduces science and its main components, including the scientific method. It also defines biology and presents the scientists who were instrumental in classifying life. Additional chapters explore the basic concepts of chemistry, macromolecules, cells, metabolism, and energy flow between organisms. Students learn about the structure of DNA and chromosomes, the cell cycle, theories regarding inheritance, the fixity of species, the Hardy-Weinberg principle, evolution, and more. Biology is the first textbook in a two-volume series that celebrates the scientists behind significant findings and principles. It is ideal for foundational courses in biology.