Synthesized answer
The book "The Genetic Basis of Evolutionary Change" surveys experiments that have used molecular techniques to reveal significant hereditary variation among individuals [1]. These experiments have also quantified genetic changes involved in the origin of new species [1].
However, the passages indicate that a satisfactory explanation for the origin and maintenance of this variation is still missing [1]. It is also unclear if adaptive evolution utilizes the common types of genetic diversity known today [1]. The author suggests that current population genetic theory is inadequate to address the observed data, leading to conflicting conclusions about the forces influencing variation [1]. The book proposes that future theories need to consider the evolution of the genome as a whole, rather than focusing on the independent evolution of individual genes, as the interaction among genes is of primary importance in understanding genetic change [1, 2].
Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.
From the book
Title: The Genetic Basis of Evolutionary Change by Richard C. Lewontin Description: In this volume the author surveys the many experiments using new molecular techniques that have revealed the enormous wealth of hereditary variation among individuals and have quantified the genetic changes that take place in the origin of new species. Dr. Lewontin proposes new theories to attack the problems which still confront the scientist. While a tremendous amount of variation has been revealed, a satisfactory explanation of the origin and maintenance of such variation is still lacking. It is not at all…
kes into account the evolution of the genome as a whole rather than the independent evolution of each gene. A book which summarizes in an unusually felicitous way the findings of the rapidly growing science of molecular evolution and points out new directions for its future. Categories: Science Pages: 372 Snippet: In this volume the author surveys the many experiments using new molecular techniques that have revealed the enormous wealth of hereditary variation among individuals and have quantified the genetic changes that take place in the origin of ...