Matter of Death and Life
Currently only available in Finnish
Humans seem like a peculiarly suicidal species, threatening to destroy the planet it depends on. But if you take a look at other life forms throughout evolutionary history, it turns out self-destructiveness is actually not that uncommon.
Humans are only one of many species that overconsume essential resources - other examples include lemmings, viruses and Carboniferous trees. And, if you look closely, almost every organism has a code of self-destruction embedded in its biology, in the form of programmed ageing and death.
Yet prudent consumption and eternal life are both possible. Matter of Death and Life (Kuoleman ja elämän kysymys) dives into the world of immortal jellyfish, explores the multitudinous shapes of programmed death from cells to societies, and sheds light on its causes and cures, helping us to answer the ultimate question: How can we escape environmental destruction and enable human societies to live forever?
”A distinctive, thought-provoking work. Thanks to masterful storytelling and beautiful language, the book—despite its dark theme—is an engaging, fast-paced pleasure to read, a kind of roller-coaster that leaves the reader thoroughly shaken.”
Finnish Committee for Public Information
”Vuorinen weaves dozens of delightful and astonishing connections between humans, animals, and plants.”
Mikko-Pekka Heikkinen,
Helsingin Sanomat
”Vuorinen blends history, natural sciences, and sociology in a way that is both enlightening and entertaining. For a big-thinking recreational scientist, the book is like an overflowing bag of pick-and-mix sweets.”
Tommi Aitio,
Kauppalehti
”The author’s assured command, vast wealth of knowledge, and the tragicomic drive of the narrative turn the reading experience into something both immersive and intense—a thrilling lesson that leaves a mark.”
Helena Miettinen,
Keskisuomalainen