Breakthrough on the Cambrian Explosion

persistence. In this domain, however, cooperation also plays a crucial role: “Cooperation and competition are partners in cultural change” (p. 257). Although the author is clear to make distinctions among the domains of evolutionary change, development, learning, and cultural change, what is emphasized in Cells to Civilizations is that, at the appropriate level of abstraction, their similarities can be enlightening. There is much more in this book that I have not mentioned. It is replete with biological examples— from the stripes of zebras to plant genetics—that illustrate the author’s claims, all accomplished with clarity and grace. Cells to Civilizations is an intelligent and entertaining book by a distinguished biologist.