Author
William Bateson
1861-1926
William Bateson (1861-1926) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by William Bateson
Mendel's principles of heredity: A defence
"Mendel's Principles of Heredity: A Defence" by William Bateson is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work serves to elucidate and defend the groundbreaking principles of heredity established by Gregor Mendel, alongside a translation of Mendel's original papers on hybridization. The book discusses the significance of Mendel’s work within the context of evolution and inheritance, providing insights into the mechanics of genetic inheritance through detailed experiments with pea plants. The opening of the work presents a preface by William Bateson, highlighting the historical neglect of Mendel’s discoveries despite their transformative implications for evolutionary biology. In it, Bateson discusses the competitive and somewhat conservative nature of the scientific community regarding new ideas and theories stemming from Darwinism. He expresses discontent over critiques levied against Mendel’s principles, specifically addressing Professor Weldon's objections, and emphasizes the necessity for Mendel's work to reach a wider audience to inspire further investigation into heredity. Bateson hints at the considerable advances in scientific understanding that could be achieved through the continued study of Mendelian genetics, setting the stage for the in-depth analysis of Mendel’s experiments to follow in subsequent chapters.
Problems of Genetics
"Problems of Genetics" by William Bateson is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book explores the foundational concepts of genetics, particularly focusing on the phenomena of variation and heredity through the lens of Mendelian methods. Bateson dives into the critical examination of biological principles, seeking to provide insights on the relationship between genetics and the theory of evolution. At the start of the book, Bateson introduces the context of his lectures, expressing the importance of investigating variation and heredity as crucial components for understanding evolution. He reflects on the historical views on species and varieties, emphasizing the need for more rigorous analysis to overcome the vague definitions that have traditionally surrounded these concepts. By rediscovering Mendel's work, he argues for a systematic inquiry into genetic phenomena, asserting that the regularity and distinctions found in variations can shed light on the fundamental characteristics of living organisms. This opening portion sets the stage for a more detailed discussion of genetic factors and the implications for evolution, inviting readers into a complex yet fascinating discussion of biology.
The Methods and Scope of Genetics An inaugural lecture delivered 23 October 1908
"The Methods and Scope of Genetics" by William Bateson is a scientific publication based on an inaugural lecture delivered in the early 20th century, specifically in the late 1900s. This work introduces and explores the field of genetics, focusing on heredity and variation, buoyed by the revolutionary insights of Mendelian principles. Bateson's lecture aims to present these concepts in a manner understandable to those outside the field of biology. In this book, Bateson elaborates on the fundamental principles of genetics, particularly how traits and characteristics are passed from parents to offspring through gametes. He describes various phenomena such as segregation, where traits may appear in offspring depending on the genetic contribution of the parents. By utilizing analogies and experiments involving plants and animals, Bateson illustrates how genetic information is structured, transmitted, and how it influences development. He emphasizes that understanding these processes is not only essential for biological science but has profound implications for human society, including genetics' potential application in improving agriculture, medicine, and even insights into human behavior and evolution. The lecture serves as a foundational explanation of genetic science's methods, scope, and relevance, underscoring its emerging significance in the early 20th century.