[1] Among the examples Moore cites in the book is that of phenylketonuria (PKU), which is caused by a mutation in a single gene, but can easily be treated through dietary intervention.

[3] Robert Lickliter and Hunter Honeycutt reviewed The Dependent Gene favorably, writing, "Using a wealth of clear examples to highlight the complex transactions between genes and environment at every stage of biological and psychological development, Moore presents a powerful antidote to gene-centered explanations of human behavior and cognition by articulating a perspective in which development really matters."

They also praised the style in which the book was written: "Moore’s clear, casual style makes this message and its consequences for the traditional gene-centered neo-Darwinian view of evolution accessible to a wide range of nonspecialists, including advanced undergraduates and graduate students in the behavioral and cognitive sciences.

"[4] The book was also reviewed favorably in Publishers Weekly, which wrote, "Scientists and social service providers will be intrigued by this well-written, insightful and far more optimistic view of human development and evolution than most that have come before.

Though he makes a well-meaning effort to clarify a complex area of biology, his treatment of the material is unlikely to serve as a primer for the general public.