Population Genetics: A Concise Guide second edition

Gillespie (evolution, U. of California-Davis) takes a minimalist approach to population genetics in this text for short courses by focusing on that part of the field that is central and incontrovertible. He begins with genetic variation, describing the Hardy-Weinberg law, and variation in Drosopila. He describes genetic drift, including the roles of mutation and molecular evolution. He then describes natural selection, two-locus dynamics, nonrandom mating, and quantitative genetics, and concludes by describing the evolutionary advantage of sex, including the principles of Muller's ratchet and Kondrashov's hatchet. Gillespie gives the answers to exercises after each chapter, and includes a summary of the mathematical necessities, including probability, inherent in population genetics. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
This concise introduction offers students and researchers an overview of the discipline that connects genetics and evolution. Addressing the theories behind population genetics and relevant empirical evidence, John Gillespie discusses genetic drift, natural selection, nonrandom mating, quantitative genetics, and the evolutionary advantage of sex. First published to wide acclaim in 1998, this brilliant primer has been updated to include new sections on molecular evolution, genetic drift, genetic load, the stationary distribution, and two-locus dynamics. This book is indispensable for students working in a laboratory setting or studying free-ranging populations.