The purpose of this chapter is to provide a brief background in molecular and Mendelian genetics necessary for an understanding of the evolutionary process. As such, the emphasis on molecular genetics is on the concept of information transmission (cell to cell, parent to child. and less on the actual biochemistry. Mendelian genetics is approached in a similar fashion, emphasizing basic principles of inheritance. While examples are drawn from familiar discrete traits, attention is also given to the genetics of complex traits. Mutations are discussed in terms of “errors” in information transmission. The “nature-nurture” debate is introduced here. An optional primer on cell biology is provided at the end of the chapter, providing greater information if desired on cell structure, mitosis, and meiosis.
