John Cairns

Broschiertes Buch

Matters of Life and Death

Perspectives on Public Health, Molecular Biology, Cancer, and the Prospects for the Human Race

Beschreibung

Cancer has become the scourge of the twentieth century. It was always part of the human condition, but until recently it was not a common cause of death because most people died from the infectious diseases. Now that so many of us will live long enough to develop cancer, we need to learn as much about it as we can. This requires some understanding of molecular biology. John Cairns has made significant contributions to cancer research, molecular biology, and virology. He believes that it is possible to explain what is known about cancer and about molecular biology in terms that are easily understood by people with little or no scientific training. In this fascinating book, he explores the revolution in public health, the origins and principles of molecular biology, and our emerging understanding of the causes of cancer. Finally, he discusses how these developments are likely to affect future generations. As Cairns points out, the last two hundred years have altered our life expectations beyond all recognition. Even in the less developed nations of the world, people are starting to believe that everyone ought to be able to live into old age and be protected from the major causes of premature death. This change in our expectations is one of the major benefits of technology and the biological sciences. But the resulting explosion in the human population ultimately threatens everything we have gained by scientific progress.

Autor

John Cairns (1818-1892) was a distinguished Scottish theologian, minister, and academic, widely recognized for his profound influence on 19th-century religious thought and the Scottish church. Born in Ayton, Berwickshire, Cairns was deeply committed to both education and ministry from an early age. He pursued his studies at the University of Edinburgh, where he developed a strong foundation in theology and philosophy, setting the stage for his future contributions to the religious and academic spheres. Cairns became a prominent figure in the United Presbyterian Church, known for his eloquent preaching, intellectual rigor, and compassionate pastoral care. His theological work was marked by a deep commitment to Christian principles, with a focus on moral and ethical issues, which he believed were central to both personal faith and social progress. In 1869, Cairns was appointed as Principal of the United Presbyterian College in Edinburgh, where he played a crucial role in shaping the education of future ministers and advancing theological scholarship. Throughout his life, Cairns was a vocal advocate for religious reform and social justice, using his influence to address pressing issues of his time. His legacy endures through his writings, sermons, and the lasting impact he had on Scottish religious education and thought.

Produktdetails

• Verlag: Princeton University Press
• Seitenzahl: 272
• Erscheinungstermin: 13. September 1998
• Englisch
• Abmessung: 234mm x 156mm x 15mm
• Gewicht: 418g
• ISBN-13: 9780691002507
• ISBN-10: 0691002509
• Artikelnr.: 22070161