Understanding Metaphors in the Life Sciences

Understanding Life

by Andrew S Reynolds

Covering a range of metaphors from a diverse field of sciences, from cell and molecular biology to evolution, ecology, and biomedicine, Understanding Metaphors in the Life Sciences explores the positive and negative implications of the widespread use of metaphors in the biological and life sciences. From genetic codes, programs, and blueprints, to cell factories, survival of the fittest, the tree of life, selfish genes, and ecological niches, to genome editing with CRISPR's molecular scissors, metaphors are ubiquitous and vital components of the modern life sciences. But how exactly do metaphors help scientists to understand the objects they study? How can they mislead both scientists and laypeople alike? And what should we all understand about the implications of science's reliance on metaphorical speech and thought for objective knowledge and adequate public policy informed by science? This book will literally help you to better understand the metaphorical dimensions of science.

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 28, 2022

Reviews

[Marco Ferrari · Rating 5 out of 5]

An invaluable resource for educators and communicators in the life sciences. This concise yet precise analysis explores the history, use, and misuse of metaphors in biology, medicine, and other scientific fields. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each category of metaphors and reveals the challenging path every communicator must navigate to avoid falling into the traps posed by these metaphors. A must-read for journalists and science communicators.