Description
Centuries of exploration, colonization, new instruments, scientific discoveries and population growth have led to the environmentalism of today. This reference-book surveys major environmental works on a range of subjects, from the origin and evolution of plants and animals to such recent philosophies as deep ecology and the Gaia hypothesis. Among the works examined are “The Origin of Species”, “The Anatomy of Plants”, “The Descent of Man” and “Playing God in Yellowstone”, as well as important environmental fiction. Each entry summarizes the work’s main points, quotes relevant passages, and assesses its reception and impact when first published. Other entries include animal ecology, biodiversity, Chernobyl, forest management, and Stephen Jay Gould.
