What ultimately controls behavior: genes or brains? The Selfish Gene describes a trend towards freedom of the survival machines from the replicators. Is this occurring? At what stage?

How relevant is The Selfish Gene for modern life? To what extent to humans still behave according to the dictates of genetics? What else could affect behavior?

Would life on other planets resemble life on Earth? If so, how? If not, why not?

Values & Ideas

Nature Versus Nurture

Humanities

Philosophy, Logic, & Ethics

Social Sciences

Psychology

Natural World

Science & Nature

Richard Dawkins

Adult

Book

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Selfish Gene reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Selfish Gene

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Selfish Gene and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Selfish Gene Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

The Selfish Gene Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-7

The Selfish Gene Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-10

The Selfish Gene Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-13

The Selfish Gene Chapters 11-13 Summary & Analysis

keyFigure

Key Figures

The Selfish Gene Key Figures

theme

Themes

The Selfish Gene Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Selfish Gene Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

character

Important Quotes

The Selfish Gene Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Selfish Gene Essay Topics

The Selfish Gene

Essay Topics

Related Titles

Featured Collections