Synopses & Reviews
Human Biology: Concepts and Current Issues, Fifth Edition sparks interest among non-science readers by encouraging them to connect basic biology concepts to real-world issues that are relevant to their own lives. As an award-winning teacher, author Michael Johnson demystifies the scientific process and the concepts of human biology, using a narrative style to tell a story with a reader-friendly approach. Genetic testing, antioxidants, and the black market for bones are just a few of the timely topics that are woven throughout each chapter to engage readers in learning the basics of human biology. Michael Johnson’s jargon-free writing style and expanded coverage of current issues are supported by dozens of exciting new illustrations and photos that further engage reader interest, while unique “Try It Yourself” boxes promote active learning. The Fifth Edition includes completely updated and redesigned art, as well as an increased focus on critical thinking. Human Biology’s expanded supplements package features Interactive Physiology® for Human Biology with a new module on the Immune System, which provides a wealth of outstanding animations, activities, and self-testing that can be used in lectures or as a study tool outside of the classroom. Other supplements include the new Teaching Tool Box, the Human Biology Support Manual, a wealth of media and animations, and a revised Study Guide.
Human Biology, Science, and Society, The Chemistry of Living Things, Structure and Function of Cells, From Cells to Organ Systems, The Skeletal System, The Muscular System, Blood, Heart and Blood Vessels, The Immune System and Mechanisms of Defense, The Respiratory System: Exchange of Gases, The Nervous System: Integration and Control, Sensory Mechanisms, The Endocrine System, The Digestive System, The Urinary System, Reproductive Systems, Cell Reproduction and Differentiation, Cancer: Uncontrolled Cell Division and Differentiation, Genetics and Inheritance, DNA Technology and Genetic Engineering, Development and Aging, Evolution and the Origins of Life, Ecosystems and Populations, Human Impacts, Biodiversity, and Environmental Issues MARKET: For all readers interested in learning about human biology.
About the Author
Dr. Michael D. Johnson spent most of his youth in the fields and forests of rural Washington, observing nature. He earned his B.S. degree in Zoology from Washington State University and then moved East to earn a Ph.D. in physiology from The University of Michigan. After completing a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at Harvard Medical School he joined the faculty of West Virginia University, where he remained for most of his career.
In 2008 Dr. Johnson moved to Qatar, on the Arabian Peninsula, to take the position of Associate Dean for Premedical Education at Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar. In his new position he directs the premedical education of students from more than 30 countries.
Dr. Johnson received several teaching awards during his career, including the West Virginia University Foundation Outstanding Teacher award and the Distinguished Teacher Award of the School of Medicine. He is a member of the American Physiological Society, the Human Anatomy and Physiology Society, the National Association of Biology Teachers, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Whether teaching undergraduates or medical students, Michael Johnson has a keen interest in instilling in students an appreciation of science. He seeks to show students how the advancement of scientific knowledge sometimes raises unforeseen ethical, political, economic, and social issues for all of us to discuss and solve. Through his teaching and this book, he encourages students to become scientifically literate so that they will feel comfortable making responsible choices as consumers of science.
You can contact Michael Johnson at [email protected] with comments or questions about this book.
Table of Contents
1. Human Biology, Science, and Society
2. The Chemistry of Living Things
3. Structure and Function of Cells
4. From Cells to Organ Systems
5. The Skeletal System
6. The Muscular System
7. Blood
8. Heart and Blood Vessels
9. The Immune System and Mechanisms of Defense
10. The Respiratory System: Exchange of Gases
11. The Nervous System: Integration and Control
12. Sensory Mechanisms
13. The Endocrine System
14. The Digestive System
15. The Urinary System
16. Reproductive Systems
17. Cell Reproduction and Differentiation
18. Cancer: Uncontrolled Cell Division and Differentiation
19. Genetics and Inheritance
20. DNA Technology and Genetic Engineering
21. Development and Aging
22. Evolution and the Origins of Life
23. Ecosystems and Populations
24. Human Impacts, Biodiversity, and Environmental Issues