Theoretical biology

Abstract

This is a complete English translation of the magnum opus of Ervin Bauer (1890-1938), published in Russian in 1935. The book develops the first fundamental concept of theoretical biology, which is grounded in biophysics and bioenergetics. Bauer's molecular-based biological theory is centered on the principle of sustainable non-equilibrium, which is continuously produced and maintained by all biological systems throughout their life. Bauer's ideas remain actual for the development of modern concepts of the foundations of life, the structure of living matter, and biological evolution.

Keywords: Bioenergetics; Biological thermodynamics; Biophysics; Ervin Bauer; History of biology; Theoretical biology.