Inscribed to Stephen Jay Gould
Biological Theory on a Holistic Basis
Publication: Baltimore, MD: (the author), 1982. First Edition.
Notes: A scarce, privately published effort to bring together biology and theoretical physics, inscribed to the paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould.
Elsasser (1904–1991) is best known for developing the currently accepted dynamo theory of the earth's magnetism. He also spent several decades exploring the connections between physics and biology and the use of mathematical models to understand biological processes, a field often called systems biology. This book, apparently published to circulate his ideas to other scientists before publication in journal articles or books, lays out principles of holism, or an interdisciplinary approach. Another chapter considers the use of computers in biology.
Elsasser's ideas about biology have not been as influential as his work in physics, but they are still part of the discussion a quarter of a century after he died.
125 pages.
Edition + Condition: First edition (first printing, with no indication of later printings). A very good copy in plain gray printed wrappers. This copy is inscribed to the noted evolutionary theorist Stephen Jay Gould above and below a rubber stamped "With author's compliments"—"To Prof. S. Jay Gould W.M.E." Books signed by Elsasser are uncommon.
Item No: #364129
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