Super Short Summary

The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins, published in 1976, expands on George C. Williams's critique about evolution, positing that genes—self-replicating molecules in Earth's oceans—are the true fundamental units of evolution. Explored through animal behavior and natural selection, Dawkins's gene-centered view argues that organisms, or "survival machines," are vehicles for genes, programming them through a combination of competition, cooperation, and altruism. Sensitive topics include discussions of reproductive strategies and survival behaviors.