Matt Ridley is a British scientist, journalist and businessman. He has written six books and received the Hayek Prize in 2011 for The Rational Optimist. He currently writes for The Wall Street Journal and The Times.
Matt Ridley Books
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What's Genome about?
Genome (2006, second edition) takes you on an exciting journey into your own body, exploring the genetic building blocks that make up not only who you are but also all life on earth. You’ll examine the basics of genetics and discover what genes influence, from aging to illness to even your own personality. Importantly, you’ll better understand why the future of healthcare and wellness may be found in the human genome.
Who should read Genome?
- Students of biology or genetics
- People curious about biological determinism vs. societal determinism
- Anyone wondering how exactly genes work
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What's The Evolution of Everything about?
The Evolution of Everything (2015) argues that the phenomenon of evolution – gradual change without goal or end – reaches far beyond genetics. Evolution happens all around us in economic markets, our language, technology and customs, and is what’s behind nearly all changes that occur in these fields.
Who should read The Evolution of Everything?
- Liberal thinkers
- Anyone curious about the power and beauty of evolution outside biology
- Listen to the Intro00:00
What's The Red Queen about?
The Red Queen (1993) takes a close look at evolutionary trajectories and how they have been guided more by reproduction than by survival. These blinks describe how the search for suitable mates has produced such remarkable phenomena as the spectacular tails of peacocks and the powerful intelligence of humans.
Who should read The Red Queen?
- Students of biology and anthropology
- Fans of popular science
- Unfaithful partners looking for a scientific justification for cheating
- Listen to the Intro00:00
What's How Innovation Works about?
How Innovation Works (2020) presents a provocative view of history in which innovation takes center stage. This detailed account of human ingenuity explains how innovation happens and why it is important.
Who should read How Innovation Works?
- History buffs interested in the roots of today’s technology
- Futurists eagerly anticipating the next big invention
- Anyone curious about how and why the world changes
