The book's articles (chapters) describe models of nature's way of controlling motion. The models are built in the tradition of Bernstein, which means that they assume that the motion phenomena under cosideration are aimed at solving a certain problem based on a model of the future. The model of the future exists in the brain of the person/animal performing the motion. This approach is different from the theory of reflexes. In reflex theory everything that happens now has a cause in the past, and this completely expains motor activity. The Bernstein-inspired approach proposes that motor activity is performed with some outcome in mind - the human or animal has a model of desired future according to which the actions are taken.

I am a plant scientist, and approached this book attracted by the name of one of the greatest biologists of this century. I did not expect, however, the deep emotions which emanate from this enticing story. Well written; investigative journalism at its best. Almost Dr. Zhivago-like true story under the Stalin regime. I enjoyed every line. Mandatory for Plant Biologists, but undoubtedly appealing to any reader with interest in Science and modern History.