The emerging truth is far more interesting than a stale
antithesis between heredity and environment. Nurture depends on
genes, and genes need nurture. Genes not only predetermine the
broad structure of the brain; through the pattern of their turning
on and off they also absorb formative experiences, react to social
cues and even run memory. They are consequences as well as causes
of the will.
'This clever and ambitious book is full of novel insights and
reflections.' James Le Fanu, Sunday Telegraph
'Ridley belongs to the coterie that truly pushes science forward
and brings it within the broader purlieus of "culture". Nature via
Nurture is another fine contribution to an already outstanding
oeuvre.' Colin Tudge, Independent Magazine
'An unrivalled view of cutting-edge research into the roots of
human behaviour.' Clive Cookson, Financial Times
'A balanced, entertaining gallop through the world of
environmental influences and genetic impulses.' Robin McKie,
Observer
'Eminently readable.' Dylan Evans, Evening
Standard
'Profoundly intelligent and persuasive.' John Cornwell,
Sunday Times
'Nature via Nurture will not end the debates about human nature
between those who look to biology and those who prefer the social
sciences. In his plunge into the fray however, Matt Ridley offers
and excellent view of the battlefield.' The
Economist
'Characteristically for a book by Ridley, there is much
fascinating material here, lucidly and entertainingly presented!
Elegantly written and highly instructive' A C Grayling,
Literary Review
'Nature via Nurture sets the modern terms for an ancient debate,
and at the same time delivers a superb tutorial on contemporary
genetics; the feedback loop that embraces genes and environment is
generally not well understood. And yet this plasticity, this
elegant mutuality, seems crucial if our new understanding of human
nature is to inform public policy. These times need a book like
this.' Ian McEwan
'Lucidly explains the most recent discoveries on what makes us
what we are, and how we should think about these discoveries as we
ponder who we want to be!A treat, written with insight, wisdom, and
style.' Steven Pinker, author of The Blank Slate
