Covering a range of metaphors from a diverse field of sciences from cell and molecular biology
to evolution ecology and biomedicine Understanding Metaphors in the Life Sciences explores
the positive and negative implications of the widespread use of metaphors in the biological and
life sciences. From genetic codes programs and blueprints to cell factories survival of the
fittest the tree of life selfish genes and ecological niches to genome editing with
CRISPR's molecular scissors metaphors are ubiquitous and vital components of the modern life
sciences. But how exactly do metaphors help scientists to understand the objects they study?
How can they mislead both scientists and laypeople alike? And what should we all understand
about the implications of science's reliance on metaphorical speech and thought for objective
knowledge and adequate public policy informed by science? This book will literally help you to
better understand the metaphorical dimensions of science.
