Mathematics of Life : Unlocking the Secrets of Existence

Mathematicians and biologists confront nature's enigmas. A new partnership of biologists and mathematicians is picking apart the hidden complexity of animals and plants to throw fresh light on the behaviour of entire organisms, how they interact, and how changes in biological diversity affect the planet's ecological balance. "Mathematics" offers new and sometimes startling perspectives on evolution and how patterns of inheritance and population work out over time-scales ranging from millions to hundreds of years - as well as what's going on to change us right now. Ian Stewart, in characteristically clear and entertaining fashion, explores these and a whole range of pertinent issues, including how far genes control behaviour and the nature of life itself. He shows how far mathematicians and biologists are succeeding in tackling some of the most difficult scientific problems the human race has ever confronted and where their research is currently taking us.

Ian Stewart's bestselling books include Professor Stewart's Cabinet of Mathematical Curiosities (978 1 84668 345 9) and Professor Stewart's Hoard of Mathematical Treasures (978 1 84668 346 6). He is Emeritus Professor of Mathematics and active researcher at Warwick University.