Don't Be Apologetic about Teaching Evolution

Abstract

stands out as a major figure in developing and communicating concepts grouped together as ecosystem ecology. In this, his latest book, he gives thoughts and understandings distilled from a lifetime's study. He writes for the general audience and provides a pithy introduction to ecology viewed especially as the patterns and processes of ecosystems to and increasingly influenced by human activity. The book is highly readable and informative. It reads far more as an extended essay than as a textbook and is written for a much wider audience than the author's classic advanced textbook (most recent edition: Basic Ecology, 1983). It begins with a prologue in which the dramatic, crippled flight of Apollo 13 is retold to introduce the concept of life-support systems for our globe as a whole. It is followed by a more formal introduction to this fundamental concept, and development through discussion of ecosystems, energy flow, nutrient cycling, population processes, succession and evolution. Also included is a brief survey of the world's major biomes. Throughout, the author mixes a seasoned veteran's wisdom and perspective with the factual and conceptual framework to which he has contributed so substantially. A major theme is the absolute importance of merging ecology and economics by incorporating the vital goods and services of nature into the economic foundations of society. This theme is especially stressed in a thoughtful epilogue in which the author peers ahead to what may befall our spaceship earth and its endangered life-support systems. In summary, this updated version of the author's ecological world view should admirably crystallize the significance and importance of the ecosystem perspective for the newcomer to ecology. The book is attractively produced, with relatively large print and well-reproduced illustrations. The writing is delightfully clear, concise and engaging. In presenting his ideas and perspectives on ecology, Odum does not speak for all ecologists. But ecologists in general certainly share his great concern that a wider audience become well-versed in the principles of ecology and their relevance for our everyday (and continued) existence. This book provides an excellent vehicle to reach that wider audience.