SCIENCES

The Evolution of Imperfection: The Science of Why We Aren’t and Can’t Be Perfect

by Laurence D. Hurst
Princeton Univ. Apr. 2025. 288p. ISBN 9780691247397. $29.95. SCI
COPY ISBN
Hurst (evolutionary genetics, Univ. of Bath) speaks to biological imperfection, not cognitive or personality imperfection, in this deep dive into the nature and mechanics of evolution generally and human evolution specifically. He debunks the idea that evolution is a process of gradual improvement on the road to perfection; it is, instead, the ongoing process of competition and adaptation to ever-changing environments. He also defines exactly what imperfection is from an evolutionary perspective, describing the reasons it exists and why it’s important; in this case, imperfection is morally and ethically neutral. In addition to writing what evolution is, Hurst also explains what it is not, dispelling common myths.
VERDICT While clearly aimed at an academic audience, this book defines its terms and provides helpful illustrations and diagrams, as well as a glossary of abbreviations. It’s accessible for interested lay readers, offering a nice round-up of the history of and current scientific understandings of evolution. Both academic and public libraries will find this enlightening and of interest.
Reviewed by Marjorie Mann , Mar 01, 2025
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Technoskepticism: Between Possibility and Refusal
by DISCO Network
NONFICTION

Black Girls and How We Fail Them
by Halliday, Aria S.
NONFICTION

What Might Be: Confronting Racism To Transform Our Institutions
by Sturm, Susan
MEDIA

It’s a Gas: The Sublime and Elusive Elements That Expand Our World
by Miodownik, Mark
MEDIA

Anima: A Wild Pastoral
by Kassabova, Kapka
MEDIA

What the Chicken Knows: A New Appreciation of the World’s Most Familiar Bird
by Montgomery, Sy
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?