Slot machine and broken test tube

Author: Rita Levi-Montalcini
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-04-01
Features: The rationality and sensibility of a great scientist's life intertwine in this memoir that spans both science and humanities. The Boston remarked: "Levi-Montalcini's profound reflections make this sincere record of human perception comparable to her remarkable achievements in the laboratory." Levi-Montalcini is the discoverer of natural mutation in bacteria, an insight that emerged from her observation of the payout rates in slot machines, thus opening the door to bacterial genetics. She is also the discoverer of restriction/modification phenomena in DNA, an epiphany that came after she broke a test tube, unlocking the gateway to the field of genetic recombination. These two achievements are significant milestones in the advancement of molecular biology. In 1969, Levi-Montalcini was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. In this unique autobiography, Levi-Montalcini reflects on the ups and downs of her life with a heartfelt tone, recalling three distinct phases of her scientific career (reaching the summit, standing at the pinnacle, embarking on a gentler slope), revisiting her scientific philosophy, discussing university education and the teacher-student relationship, delving into her experiences with visual arts and literature, and sharing her enthusiasm for political activism (anti-Vietnam War, anti-nuclear testing, and her work as a volunteer for the U.S. presidential election). She also honestlys her emotional world.