Skip to content

Cells Quote by Lewis Thomas

“All of today's DNA, strung through all the cells of the earth, is simply an extension and elaboration of [the] first molecule.” quote by Lewis Thomas
Download Open image
“All of today's DNA, strung through all the cells of the earth, is simply an extension and elaboration of [the] first molecule.”

Lewis Thomas

About This Quote

Source Book: The Lives of a Cell, 1974, Lewis Thomas

The quote emphasizes that all current DNA is a direct continuation and elaboration of the original molecular building blocks of life.

In simple terms: DNA today extends the first molecule.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate the continuity of life’s molecular origins.

Themes

science biology evolution continuity origin

Mood

inquisitive thoughtful

Type

scientific philosophical

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • public understanding
  • medical advances
  • environmental studies

Key Concepts

genetics molecular biology evolutionary theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this continuity reveal about life's complexity?
  • How does this perspective influence our view of evolution?
A Different Perspective

Focusing only on DNA may overlook other crucial biological processes.

3.8 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Lewis Thomas

Explore all 173 Lewis Thomas quotes

More Cells quotes

Browse all 1,481 Cells quotes