20 NOVEMBER 1926, Page 45

THE PHYSIOLOGY OF THE CONTINUITY OF LIFE. By D. Noel

Paton. (Macmillan. 12s. net.)—Dr. Paton' deals with subjects of much scientific controversy— the inheritance of acquired characteristics, for example... His intention is to make. clear the chemical dependence of the evolution and reproduction of species. It is unfortunate that his space was not larger ; for he is forced to consider very many problems, and he can only treat them sketchily. The result is that his book is suggestive rather than decisive : but' it displays a good deal of critical acumen, and an unbiassed mind.