Perspective

The final chapter of "The Selfish Gene" argues that just because genes are not altruistic does not mean that we humans can't be so. With his theory of the "meme", or powerful idea that survives because of various appealing qualities, Dawkins suggests we have an opportunity to promote ideas that benefit all living beings, not just the strongest. With our human adaptation so see and plan for future events, we might be able to prevent such disasters such as overpopulation or pollution of the earth.

As in all the arguments made in his book, Dawkins defies the idea of destiny or preordained acts and urges people to use their brains in creative and nonviolent ways.

Tone

The tone of this book is chatty and friendly, with an underlying sense of self confidence. The author is presenting an idea which is very strange to readers in 1976 when the book...