Ahead of the Curve: David Baltimore's Life in Science
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Book Overview
Shane Crotty's biography of David Baltimore details the life and work of one of the most brilliant, powerful, and controversial scientists of our time. Although only in his early sixties, Baltimore... This description may be from another edition of this product.
Format:Hardcover
Language:English
ISBN:0520225570
ISBN13:9780520225572
Release Date:July 2003
Publisher:University of California Press
Length:488 Pages
Weight:1.45 lbs.
Dimensions:9.3" x 1.0" x 6.3"
Customer Reviews
4 ratings
No rule without an exception
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 16 years ago
In 1950s, Watson and Crick established a so-called "central dogma" in molecular biology: DNA makes RNA, and RNA makes proteins. However, around 1970, two groups in US found the first exception of this rule. David Baltimore's and Howard Temin's teams discovered that RNA makes DNA! This unexpected finding of theirs in cancer-causing RNA viruses not only made this field up-side down, but also opened a new avenue called "recombinant technology" a decade later, for cloning genes and transfering any gene from one species to another almost at will. For this reason, Baltimore and Temin shared a Nobel prize in 1975. Baltimore's greatness extended beyond the science. He viewed this world in an "unconventional" manner. He married a highly-talented Chinese biologist, and protested against the highly controversial US wars in Vietnam and Iraq. He has an exceptional wisdom which we could learn from this well-written biography.
When Baltimore speaks, everyone listens.
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
I truly enjoyed reading this book on the impressive scientific accomplishments of David Baltimore. I remember being in a relatively informal seminar at MIT when he gave a short introduction to the science that was to be presented that evening. His presence commanded awe and respect---almost always expected from someone with outstanding credentials.The book is good not just for examining Baltimore's exponential rise to scientific stardom but also for getting a seminal idea on the development of the fields of virology, molecular biology, and immunology. Through his work, Baltimore became a unifying force between these seemingly disparate sciences. The author also writes clearly about the political baggage that comes with having such a high profile in biology.
A Must Read!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
The author weaves a wonderful overview of the early history of molecular biology with the achievements of David Baltimore's life. We are given a great deal of insight not only about his groundbreaking research and accomplishments but also personal qualities and passion for life outside of science. This is a great book for both biologists and those with simply an interest in biology. The scientific information is easy to comprehend without being oversimplified. Some works of non-fiction can take a long time to read, but I finished this book in 2 days as the story flowed very smoothly. I am definitely looking forward to Shane Crotty's future publications.
Excellent read!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
This is a great book! I really enjoyed the story of Baltimore's life, and I feel that I learned a lot of science along the way. I definitely feel more qualified to comment on conversations about biology now! I actually picked up this book because I really enjoy biographies, but it has gotten me interested in other science books for amateurs. I hope Crotty writes more soon!
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