Epigenetic Inheritance and Evolution: The Lamarckian Dimension

by Eva Jablonka, Marion Lamb

Does the inheritance of acquired characteristics play a significant role in evolution? In this book, Eva Jablonka and Marion J. Lamb attempt to answer that question with an original, provocative exploration of the nature and origin of hereditary variations. Starting with a historical account of Lamarck's ideas and the reasons they have fallen in disrepute, the authors go on to challenge the prevailing assumption that all heritable variation is random and the result of variation in DNA base sequences. They also detail recent breakthroughs in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying inheritance--including several pathways not envisioned by classical population genetics--and argue that these advances need to be more fully incorporated into mainstream evolutionary theory. Throughout, the book offers a new look at the evidence for and against the hereditability of environmentally induced changes, and addresses timely questions about the importance of non-Mendelian
inheritance. A glossary and extensive list of references round out the book. Urging a reconsideration of the present DNA-centric view prevalent in the field, Epigentic Inheritance and Evolution will make fascinating and important reading for students and researchers in evolution, genetics, ecology, molecular biology, developmental biology, and the history and philosophy of science.

Genres: Science, Biology

360 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Charlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I don't love the title or the constant reference to Lamarck, because in the end, an argument could be made that Darwin's theory was as supportive of epigenetics as Lamarck, I do love the conversation Jablonka brings to the table.

Jablonka is one of my favorite researchers of all time. Her papers and books opened my eyes to the world of epigenetics. She is a pioneer, who worked tirelessly to be heard, despite the horrible treatment she received from Elitist scientists, such as Richard Dawkins, whose own work is stuck in the dark ages of genetic research, while Jablonka's work remains on the cutting edge.

Jablonka is never included in John Brockman's Edge books. Yet, fossils like Dawkins are. It's shocking to me, considering the novel nature of Jablonka's work.

This and ever book and article she has written are worth reading. In each book or paper, Jablonka conducts and exhaustive survey of the occurrence of epigenetics in nature. Armed with myriad studies, Jablonka argues for an update of the "Modern Synthesis", which should be titled "The Not So Modern Synthesis."