The Selfish Gene

Richard Dawkins's The Selfish Gene, a volume that transformed evolutionary biology, articulates a gene-centered perspective on natural selection. A bestseller translated into over 25 languages, it positions genes as the fundamental units of information, with organisms serving as vehicles for their propagation. This approach illuminates behaviors and life strategies through the lens of genetic self-interest, drawing on concepts from game theory to explain cooperation and conflict.

Since its publication, the book has shaped discourse across biology, genetics, zoology, and cultural anthropology. This 40th anniversary edition from Oxford Landmark Science includes a new epilogue where Dawkins reflects on the enduring relevance of these ideas, along with original prefaces and early reviews. It remains a foundational text for understanding evolution, natural selection, and the gene's role in shaping life and culture.