How did life start? Is the evolution of life describable by any physics-like laws? Stuart Kauffman's latest book offers an explanation-beyond what the laws of physics can explain-of the progression from a complex chemical environment to molecular reproduction, metabolism and to early protocells, and further evolution to what we recognize as life.

The world is not a machine -- The function of function -- Propagating organization -- Demystifying life -- How to make a metabolism -- Protocells -- Heritable variation -- The games we play -- Interlude: The surprising true story of Patrick S. "The First," Rupert R., Sly S., and Gus G., protocells in their very early years -- The stage is set -- Exaptations and screwdrivers -- A world beyond physics -- Epilogue: The evolution of the economy.