Degrees of freedom : living in dynamic boundaries /

Rayner's book is NOT on statistics, as the title might imply; rather, it discusses the varied ways in which life forms organize themselves. The first chapter introduces the concept of precise boundaries and the inability to define them precisely; chapter 2 briefly introduces cell biology, beginning with molecules and ending with communities. The next chapter discusses the ability of organisms and their environment to modify or mold each other through coactions, and chapter 4 (60 pages) examines differentiation and integration, the development of specialist organelles or cells, and their integration into a functional whole. Another chapter explores the necessity for versatility and redundancy, and the ability of organisms to change by such processes as metamorphism and opportunism. The seventh chapter really speaks to the problems of multicellularity at the molecular and higher levels: What are the advantages and costs of being composed of many cells? The final chapter applies biological understanding to the human condition, which, Rayner asserts, is not unique to humans but has many factors in common with many other living organisms. Highly recommended for biologists of all disciplines. Undergraduates through faculty. J. Dawson Pittsburg State University