A detailed exploration of the historical journey leading to the discovery of DNA's structure by Francis Crick and James Watson, highlighting the key individuals and events that contributed to this breakthrough. Paul Strathern book begins by examining the earlier stages of genetic research, starting with ancient observations and culminating with Gregor Mendel's groundbreaking work on inheritance. It then dives into the complex interplay of scientific contributions, rivalries, and individual personalities that shaped the race to discover DNA's structure, culminating in Crick and Watson's triumph in 1953. The text concludes with a reflection on the profound implications of this discovery for our understanding of life and the ethical dilemmas that arise from our growing ability to manipulate the very building blocks of life.
