The Book of Humans: Culture, Sex, War & Evolution by Adam Rutherford - Non Fiction - Paperback

Details
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781780229089
Publisher: Weidenfeld & Nicolson
Age Range: Adult / General Readership

Overview
The Book of Humans: A Brief History of Culture, Sex, War and the Evolution of Us is Adam Rutherford's witty, wide-ranging tour through the animal kingdom, asking what really separates humans from other species. Drawing on genetics, anthropology and evolutionary biology, Rutherford dismantles comfortable myths about human exceptionalism while celebrating the genuine strangeness of our species. This brand-new paperback is a rewarding read for anyone curious about science, evolution and what makes us tick.

About the Book
Waging war, having sex for pleasure, making art, mastering fire - these were once thought to be uniquely human traits, but Rutherford shows that nature is rarely so tidy. Across engaging, myth-busting chapters he explores the surprising behaviours of dolphins, crows, chimpanzees and other creatures to reveal how much we share with the rest of the animal kingdom - and where genuine human distinctiveness actually lies. The book moves fluidly between cutting-edge scientific research and vivid storytelling, covering topics such as sexuality, violence, cooperation, symbolism and culture. Rather than offering a single grand theory of human nature, Rutherford builds a nuanced, evidence-based picture, encouraging readers to question assumptions they may never have examined before. His prose is playful and often very funny, but always grounded in rigorous science, making complex ideas about evolution and genetics accessible without oversimplifying them. The result is a book that entertains as much as it informs, ideal for readers who enjoyed his previous bestsellers and for anyone who wants a smart, unpretentious guide to the science of being human. It's equally suited to a relaxed weekend read or as a jumping-off point for classroom or book club discussion about evolution and what truly makes our species unique.

• Written by a bestselling, award-shortlisted science communicator and geneticist
• Combines rigorous, up-to-date research with accessible, witty storytelling
• Covers fascinating cross-species comparisons on sex, tools, fire, art and war
• Ideal for book clubs, classroom discussion, or general popular science readers
• Compact paperback format - easy to carry, gift, or add to a home library

About the Author
Dr Adam Rutherford is a British geneticist, science writer and broadcaster. He studied genetics at University College London, and during his PhD he was part of a team that identified the first genetic cause of a form of childhood blindness. He has presented numerous BBC programmes, including Radio 4's Inside Science and The Curious Cases of Rutherford & Fry with Dr Hannah Fry. His other books include Creation, shortlisted for the Wellcome Trust Book Prize, and A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived.

Why You'll Love This Paperback
Funny, rigorous and endlessly quotable, this paperback is a perfect entry point into evolutionary science - ideal for curious minds, students, and anyone who loves a great popular science read.

Please Note: Cover shown is the UK paperback edition; ISBN 9781780229089 will be dispatched.