What is Life? is a book written by Austrian physicist Erwin Schrödinger, published in 1944. The book explores the nature of life and the fundamental questions that arise when trying to understand what life is. Schrödinger’s main argument is that life cannot be fully understood through the lens of physics and chemistry alone, and that a new scientific discipline is needed to study the unique properties of living organisms.
Chapter 1: The Problem of Life
In the first chapter, Schrödinger introduces the problem of life, which he defines as the question of how a complex, ordered structure like a living organism can arise from inanimate matter. He argues that this problem cannot be fully understood through the principles of physics and chemistry, as these disciplines focus on the behavior of inanimate matter.
Chapter 2: The Nature of the Chemical Bond
In the second chapter, Schrödinger discusses the nature of the chemical bond, which he sees as the foundation of all life. He argues that the chemical bond is not just a physical interaction between atoms, but also involves a certain amount of order and organization that is unique to living organisms.
Chapter 3: The Genetic Basis of Life
In the third chapter, Schrödinger introduces the concept of genes and their role in the transmission of hereditary traits. He argues that genes are not just physical structures, but also carry a certain amount of information that is essential for the survival and reproduction of living organisms.
Chapter 4: The Role of Molecules in Life
In the fourth chapter, Schrödinger discusses the role of molecules in living organisms, and how they interact with each other to create complex structures and functions. He argues that the behavior of molecules in living organisms is fundamentally different from the behavior of molecules in inanimate matter, and that this difference is what gives rise to the unique properties of life.
Chapter 5: The Mind and the Brain
In the fifth chapter, Schrödinger explores the relationship between the mind and the brain, and how the mind can influence the behavior of living organisms. He argues that the mind is not just a product of the brain, but also has a certain amount of independence and autonomy that is unique to living organisms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Schrödinger argues that life cannot be fully understood through the principles of physics and chemistry alone, and that a new scientific discipline is needed to study the unique properties of living organisms. He suggests that this new discipline should be called “vitalism,” and should focus on the study of the fundamental properties of life that are not fully explained by physics and chemistry.
Overall, What is Life? is a thought-provoking book that challenges our understanding of life and the nature of living organisms. Schrödinger’s arguments are still relevant today, and his ideas continue to inspire research in the field of biology and related disciplines.
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