Top 18 human biology books
Gut
What is Gut about?
Your gut is more fascinating than you can imagine, and “Gut” by Giulia Enders unravels this hidden universe inside us all. It's an essential guide that emphasizes the vital roles and mechanisms of our digestive system. As we journey through each chapter, we gain unique insights and practical tips to help us better understand and care for our own gut health.
The Brain that Changes Itself
What is The Brain that Changes Itself about?
The Brain that Changes Itself, written by psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Norman Doidge, is a curios journey into the world of neuroplasticity. It topples the long-held belief that the human brain is unchangeable, offering instead a hopeful vision of the brain's ability to adapt, heal and form new neural connections. Doidge's narrative is both scientifically rich and deeply human, filled with riveting stories of personal triumph, resilience, and the limitless possibilities of human potential.
The Sixth Extinction
What is The Sixth Extinction about?
We all realize that our planet is suffering from substantial environmental problems. But somehow, this awareness doesn't lead to great results: animals continue to die out, and companies continue to pollute the air and oceans. If the topic of extinction is also on your mind, “The Sixth Extinction” by Elizabeth Kolbert can provide many unexpected details about the human impact on the world.
Behave
What is Behave about?
“Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst” by Robert Sapolsky describes the nature of human behavior and explains why we act a certain way. You will find out how the brain affects the body, and how culture influences our behavior.
The Gene
What is The Gene about?
In his #1 New York Times bestseller "The Gene," Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee reveals the secrets of genetics, the most important science of our times. Through compelling personal stories, he tells us about his family's mental illnesses. The author explores how genetics came out of the laboratory and into the real world.
The Body
What is The Body about?
Have you ever thought just how fascinating your body is? It is such a complex system, yet all of its components manage to function in total synchronicity. If you want to learn more fascinating things about your body, "The Body" by Bill Bryson is the book for you.
The Emperor of All Maladies
What is The Emperor of All Maladies about?
For centuries, cancer has been a horrific emperor that brought havoc to humanity. In "The Emperor of All Maladies," Siddhartha Mukherjee, a doctor and researcher, reflects on the epic war against this disease. He discusses moments from the first glimpses of cancer to the latest procedures of chemotherapy and radiation.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
What is The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks about?
In 1951, doctors took cells from Henrietta Lacks' tumor without her knowledge. These cells, named HeLa after her, became the first immortal human cell line. Later, Rebecca Skloot spends years learning Henrietta's story to write a prize-winning nonfiction book, "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks." Her work reveals how HeLa helped to develop the polio vaccine, revealed secrets about cancer and viruses, and led to major advances like in vitro fertilization, cloning, and gene mapping.
The Microbiome Solution
What is The Microbiome Solution about?
We all have a tiny universe inside us consisting of trillions of creatures. In medicine, it is called the microbiome. Dr. Robynne Chutkan, in her book The Microbiome Solution, reveals how microscopic residents of our gut can influence our health. Chutkan believes that by taking care of your gut microbiome, you can potentially improve your overall health and well-being. Therefore, she gives practical tips and delicious recipes to help you heal your body from the inside out.
The Ghost Map
What is The Ghost Map about?
In the summer of 1854, a terrifying guest arrived in London: cholera. This deadly disease spread extremely fast, leaving thousands of people dead. Dr. John Snow's "The Ghost Map" explains how the spread of disease, the growth of cities, and scientific inquiry are connected. Snow provides an interesting history and a strong explanation of how these factors have shaped our world.
The Biology of Belief
What is The Biology of Belief about?
What if your thoughts and beliefs influenced your life and health? This is what Bruce Lipton believes in. In his book "The Biology of Belief," Lipton proposes that our thoughts and perceptions can actually influence our genes and our health. He explores the science behind this mind-body connection, giving unique recommendations on healing ourselves and creating a healthier, happier life.
The Selfish Gene
What is The Selfish Gene about?
"The Selfish Gene" by Richard Dawkins is a groundbreaking book on evolution. Here, you will learn about the theory of natural selection and genes. Do you know why bees will die to protect their hive? If the answer is "no," it's time to read this book.
The Vital Question
What is The Vital Question about?
In "The Vital Question," Nick Lane, a biochemist, studies a fundamental mystery: why does life operate the way it does, and how did it all begin? Lane argues that focusing solely on genetics isn't enough. He proposes that the origin and evolution of complex life is tied to how cells utilize energy. The book explores the power of energy in shaping the course of evolution and many more.
The Wild Life of Our Bodies
What is The Wild Life of Our Bodies about?
Our bodies are not isolated fortresses. Instead, they are full of small inhabitants, like microbes, bacteria, and others. In "The Wild Life of Our Bodies," biologist Rob Dunn explores residents of our bodies and explains how these creatures might influence our immune system, weight, and even mental health.
The Complete Human Body The Definitive Visual Guide
What is The Complete Human Body The Definitive Visual Guide about?
Dr. Alice Roberts gives us a chance to look at our ancestors and how the evolution of Homo Sapiens shaped our anatomy. You will also learn about your DNA, cardiovascular and digestive systems, skeleton, and muscles. Read on and learn more about your body.
Need to Know
What is Need to Know about?
"Need to Know: Higher Human Biology" by Graham Moffat isn't just an average biology textbook. It’s a unique guide on how your heart, lungs, and digestive system work together. Moffat explains topics like genetic engineering and the ethical dilemmas it poses. It will equip you with the knowledge to understand the latest advancements in medicine and make informed decisions about your own health.
The Extended Mind
What is The Extended Mind about?
In The Extended Mind by Annie Murphy Paul, you will find out what it means to think outside the brain. The book explains the notion of "extra-neural" resources and how they can help us to focus, understand more deeply, and be more creative. Annie Murphy Paul presents research from neuroscientists, cognitive scientists, and psychologists, proving that we can improve our thinking.
Livewired
What is Livewired about?
Do you know what your brain is capable of? Livewired by David Eagleman explains how drug withdrawal is similar to a broken heart or how a blind person can learn to see with their tongue. Our brain can constantly rewire itself and open its hidden abilities. David Eagleman explains the latest neuroscience discoveries, including synesthesia, dreaming, and new neurotechnology.
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