Biology

Biology: A Historical Perspective, Volume I introduces students to key concepts of the science curriculum and the scientists responsible for the significant discoveries and developments within the discipline. The text also provides readers with a unique historical perspective into the accomplishments of often underrepresented scientists such as Jean Vance, Friedrich Miescher, Walther Flemming, and Edith Rebecca Saunders, among others.

Each chapter begins with a brief biographical sketch of a scientist who helped shape the current understanding of a particular scientific concept. The opening chapter introduces science and its main components, including the scientific method. It also defines biology and presents the scientists who were instrumental in classifying life. Additional chapters explore the basic concepts of chemistry, macromolecules, cells, metabolism, and energy flow between organisms. Students learn about the structure of DNA and chromosomes, the cell cycle, theories regarding inheritance, the fixity of species, the Hardy-Weinberg principle, evolution, and more.

The revised first edition features small corrections throughout as well as the addition of listed sources at the end of each chapter and a glossary at the end of the book.

Biology is the first textbook in a two-volume series that celebrates the scientists behind significant findings and principles. It is ideal for foundational courses in biology.

Author Biography

Jason L. Worley earned his B.S. in biology from Ferrum College (2002) and holds a master’s degree in chemical and life sciences from the University of Maryland (2009) and another in biological sciences from Clemson University (2016). He is currently an assistant professor of biology at Patrick & Henry Community College and has been a member of the faculty since 2009. Worley teaches introductory biology courses and a course in microbiology. His favorite activities include performing herpetofauna surveys with students and spending a week in the Bahamas conducting field research to understand the ecology of sharks.