Skin: A Natural History.

SKIN: A Natural History NINA G. JABLONSKI

PeopLe glean much of what they know about the world through skin--the largest organ in, or perhaps one should say on, the human body: skin. Skin protects people from harmful environmental agents, bacteria, and ultraviolet rays. All the while, human skin remains permeable to some medications and enough sunlight to make vitamin D. The skin sweats to efficiently maintain body temperature. Aside from changing color in response to emotional states, skin comes in a multitude of natural shades, corresponding to the differences in sun exposure at various latitudes and serving, for better or worse, as a way for groups to identify their members. Anthropologist Jablonski delves into the natural history of skin in animals and people and explains its structure and function, its evolution as a nearly hairless body covering in people, and the utility of its pigment melanin. She also examines the role of skin in activities as varied as finding food and bonding socially. Finally, she looks at the prospects for artificial skin. Univ. Calif. Press, 2006, 266 p., color plates and b&w photos, hardcover, $24.95.