Searching for a Clear Description of Genes, DNA, and More

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the clarity and comprehensiveness of explanations regarding genes, DNA, and related molecular biology concepts as presented in the book 'Genome' by Matt Ridley. Participants express frustration with the book's approach and seek recommendations for alternative resources that provide clearer and more systematic explanations of these topics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with 'Genome' for not providing clear definitions and explanations of DNA, ribosomes, and their locations in the body.
  • Another participant suggests that the molecules in question do not have a fixed "position" and can be found in various locations, including the nucleus and freely floating in the cell.
  • A participant clarifies that they are interested in understanding the chemical compositions of these molecules and suggests the need for a basic introductory textbook.
  • Concerns are raised about the necessity of prior knowledge to appreciate the content of 'Genome', questioning the value of a popular science book if foundational knowledge is required.
  • One participant notes that omissions in popular science books may not always be significant, implying that the approach taken by Ridley may be justifiable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the effectiveness of 'Genome' as a resource, with some agreeing on its limitations while others suggest that the omissions may not be critical. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best alternative resources for clear explanations of molecular biology concepts.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of familiarity with the subject matter, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge that affects their understanding of the book's content. There is also an acknowledgment that popular science books may not cater to all levels of understanding.

collectedsoul
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I started reading 'Genome' by Matt Ridley thinking it would answer my questions of what genes, DNA, etc are, but I found myself frustrated with its approach. He only gives a short outline of where chromosomes and genes reside (in nuclei of cells) in the preface but there's no clear explanation for DNA or ribosomes. Besides the preface was just 4 pages and he immediately in the first chapter jumps into talking about RNA replicating and proteins synthesizing and what not. Without giving a proper clear explanation of what each thing is and where it lies in the body.

So now I'm looking for a proper book that dispenses with the frills and provides an exact picture of what each thing is, where it lies, and how it interacts. I don't mind frills as long as the technical content is first systematically addressed or at least addressed exhaustively as it comes up in the narrative. But 'Genome' is terrible at this. So now I'm looking for a recommendation for an alternative book. Help!
 
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I got This book from a quick google search
 
I don't think there exists something like a clear "position" of the molecules listed. They either are in the nuclei, or outside, and to some extent they are freely floating.

Compare discussion in this recent thread: https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=622587

Besides, Genome is a popular science book, not intended to be a systematic lecture.
 
When I wrote about 'where things are in the body' I meant in terms of whether they lie in cells, and if so what part of the cell, etc. I want to learn about the chemical compositions also. I've realized that maybe what I need is an introductory textbook to the subject. But really basic, nothing too complex. Any suggestions?

My complaint with 'Genome' is that to really follow and enjoy the content you have to know the stuff beforehand - and then what is the point of reading a popular book at all if you know the subject?
 
collectedsoul said:
My complaint with 'Genome' is that to really follow and enjoy the content you have to know the stuff beforehand - and then what is the point of reading a popular book at all if you know the subject?

I don't know the book, so I can be wrong, but from experience I know that often things left out don't matter -which is why they are left out.

But obviously if you were looking for something else, you don't have to like the approach :wink:
 

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