By
Steward Pickett, Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, New York, U.S.A.
Jurek Kolasa, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Clive Jones, Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Millbrook, New York, U.S.A.
Description
This widely anticipated revision of the groundbreaking book, Ecological Understanding, updates this crucial sourcebook of contemporary
philosophical insights for practicing ecologists and graduate students in ecology and environmental studies. The second edition contains
new ecological examples, an expanded array of conceptual diagrams and illustrations, new text boxes summarizing important points or defining
key terms, and new reference to philosophical issues and controversies. Although the first edition was recognized for its clarity, this
revision takes the opportunity to make the exposition of complex topics still clearer to readers without a philosophical background.
Readers will gain an understanding of the goals of science, the structure of theory, the kinds of theory relevant to ecology, the
way that theory changes, what constitutes objectivity in contemporary science, and the role of paradigms and frameworks for synthesis
within ecology and in integration with other disciplines. Finally, how theory can inform and anchor the public use of ecological knowledge
in civic debates is laid out. This new edition refines the understanding of how the structure and change of theory can improve the growth
and application of one of the 21st century’s key sciences.
Audience:
Researchers, faculty, graduate students and advanced undergraduates actively engaged in ecological research. This book is especially appropriate
for advanced ecology seminar courses and should appeal to any ecologist.
