Discordant Harmonies

Here, Botkin combines his considerable scientific expertise with the well-honed eye of a nature writer as well as a philosopher's keen sense of how ideas shape our perceptions of reality. The marvelous result is a guided tour of the natural world. In a fascinating series of case studies, Botkin addresses many controversial present-day issues--like controlled burning in forests, fishing and hunting quotas, and policy making for management of natural resources. He looks at each case in...
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Here, Botkin combines his considerable scientific expertise with the well-honed eye of a nature writer as well as a philosopher's keen sense of how ideas shape our perceptions of reality. The marvelous result is a guided tour of the natural world. In a fascinating series of case studies, Botkin addresses many controversial present-day issues--like controlled burning in forests, fishing and hunting quotas, and policy making for management of natural resources. He looks at each case in light of both past thinking and current research, revealing how old myths often blind us to the new scientific discoveries and new ways of thinking needed to solve our environmental problems. Above all, Discordant Harmonies is concerned with redefining the relationship between human beings and nature, or rethinking this relationship so that our needs can be met and the intricate systems of nature can persist. This provocative book has influenced policy, formed the basis for new approaches, and has been called one of the major contributions to a new understanding of nature.

Whether discussing moose herds on Isle Royale or Yosemite's famous Mariposa Grove of Sequoias, Botkin writes vividly and insightfully about nature, ultimately challenging us to rethink some of our most cherished notions about the world around us.