In this volume, John Maynard Smith and Eors Szathmary propose that during evolution, there have been a number of major transitions in the way in which information is passed between generations. These include the appearance of the first replicating molecules, the emergence of co-operative animal societies, and the unique language ability of humans.

The authors of "The Major Transitions in Evolution" now draw a brilliant, original picture of how life evolved on earth, focusing primarily on six major transitions and dramatic breakthroughs in the way that information was passed between generations.

...the book is well written, stimulating, and full of information nuggets.