Art of Ecology

Writings of G. Evelyn Hutchinson

Skelly David K., Post David M., Smith Melinda D.

During the twentieth century, ecology evolved from a collection of natural history facts to a rigorous, analytical discipline with a rich body of theory. No single person is more responsible for this change than G. Evelyn Hutchinson. This collection of selected writings showcases Hutchinson's dynamic and wide-ranging mind as well as his keen wit. Original essays by scientists and historians underscore the continuing relevance of Hutchinson's ideas.

About the author

David K. Skelly, David M. Post, and Melinda D. Smith are ecologists on the faculty of Yale University.

Reviews

"'The Art of Ecology' ultimately feels like the kind of museum collection Hutchinson admired – it is scientifically informative and beautiful in its diversity. The multiple facets of Hutchinson's life and ideas exemplify what many know but are hesitant to admit: Science is justified. Not by the accumulation or application of knowledge, but rather by the joy derived from understanding aspects of an intriguing universe" – Callen Hyland, Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine