Abstract
THE object of this book is to trace and explain the evolution of the functions of those elements of living matter which are essential for the manifestation of purposive, instinctive, and psychical phenomena. The book is divided into two parts; in the first the evidence is given which the author believes proves the gradual evolution of purposive action in protoplasm in the various classes of the animal kingdom, in the second the soundness of these conclusions is put to the test by giving in outline the leading characteristics displayed by the Irish Celts of County Clare—a long line of individuals who lived under conditions well adapted to show the power which their inherited qualities exercised on the actions of many successive generations and on the destinies of the race.
The Evolution and Function of Living Purposive Matter.
By N. C. Macnamara. (International Scientific Series.) Pp. xi+298. (London: Kegan Paul, Trench, Trübner and Co., Ltd., 1910.) Price 5s.
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The Evolution and Function of Living Purposive Matter . Nature 86, 341–342 (1911). https://doi.org/10.1038/086341b0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/086341b0
