Topobiology: An Introduction to Molecular Embryology by Gerald M. Edelman might not be
everyone’s choice for light reading. I
freely admit that the bulk of the scientific detail went straight over my head
since biology happened to me a long time ago.
That said, the overall conception of the book is fascinating. The book considers the interaction of
genetics and epigenetics on the development of organisms, even going so far as
to describe some possible ramifications for brain structure and development.
Edelman is a
skilled writer, able to describe and synthesize complex histories and theories
in graceful prose. He remarks, for
example, “Truth often lives on the outskirts of ancient controversies and moves
to the center of town only when both thesis and antithesis are transformed” (p.
4).
I admit to a
fascination with how linear information like DNA transforms into three-dimensional
structure. (The fascination explains
some of why I like knitting, too…)
Recognizing that time and place and experience influence development
along with our coded data seems to enhance my conception of how the world
works.
