As a result of the molecular genetic analysis of development similar mechanisms for the regulation of gene expression are found in a wide range of organisms. In "Development - the Molecular Genetic Approach" these common mechanisms as well as the specific events leading to a differentiated cell are described. Particular items treated are, for example, how asymmetry is achieved, how cell size is determined, how cell division is controlled, how cell lineage influences development, how cells know their position, and how cells communicate during development.