The Art of Ecology

A valuable overview of the writings and history of one of the 20th centurys finest minds. Val Smith, University of Kansas -- Val Smith "An inspiration to all of us. having these pieces by Hutchinson put together in one place will be a valued tool for nurturing a sense of history in the discipline of ecology."Robert D. Holt, University of Florida -- Robert D. Holt "This volume is a treasure, a beautifully integrated collection of writings by Hutchinson and about him, a loving tribute to one of the most important scientists of our time."Simon Levin, author of Fragile Dominion -- Simon Levin These essays are a tribute both to his research and to the man who nurtured so many students and great academics. Perhaps not the father of ecology but, as he liked to recall, the intellectual father of a great number of ecologists.The Global Journal * The Global Journal * "This anthology provides a valuable introduction to [Hutchinson's] thoughts and achievements. . . . Yale University Press has produced a handsome book at a handsome price to commemorate a famous Yale professor."F. N. Egerton, CHOICE -- F. N. Egerton * CHOICE * The Art of Ecology is an eclectic collection of essays, book excerpts, and primary scientific literature by Hutchinson, complete with the original font, figures, and graphs from each excerpt. The selections, which are introduced by historians and scientists, reveal an intellectual breadth unusual in our era of specialization. I came to this book as experimental biologist knowing little of limnology or theoretical ecology, but I was fascinated and inspired by this peek into Hutchinson's world."Callen Hyland, Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine -- Callen Hyland * Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine * 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 Hutchinsons 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 -- Callen Hyland * Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine * a harmonious and coherent picture of Hutchinsons intellectual evolution. Aaron M. Ellison, Ecology -- Aaron M. Ellison * Ecology * "It was fascinating overall to learn more about G. Evelyn Hutchinson in this book. The Art of Ecology is a great collection of his most important achievements." Jonathan M. Jeschke -- Jonathan M. Jeschke * Ecological Society of Germany *

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