The Selfish Gene (Richard Dawkins)

"The Selfish Gene," written by Richard Dawkins, presents the idea that genes, rather than individuals or species, are the primary units of natural selection. Dawkins argues that genes behave in ways that enhance their own survival and replication, even if this might not always benefit the organism. He introduces concepts like "memes," which are ideas or behaviors that spread culturally. The book emphasizes that understanding evolution through the lens of genes offers deeper insights into behavior, cooperation, and altruism in living organisms, suggesting that much of our behavior is influenced by our genetic legacy.