The Song of the Cell: An Exploration of Medicine and the New Human

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2022

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Before You Read

Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prelude-Introduction

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Part 2, Chapters 5-8

Part 3, Chapters 9-14

Part 4, Chapter 15

Part 5, Chapters 16-18

Part 6, Chapter 19-Epilogue

Key Figures

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Throughout the book, Mukherjee discusses poets, philosophers, healers, and religious figures from the ancient through the medieval world. How did these various figures help modern scientists understand medicine and cell biology?

How have medical failures shaped key breakthroughs in medicine? Describe two or three examples from the book. Do you think people should celebrate these failures as the start of a journey that led to success? Why or why not?

Why does Mukherjee title his book The Song of the Cell? Is it possible for scientists to ever truly understand all of the songs of cells? How do you think Mukherjee might respond to your argument?