The Structure and Dynamics of Human Ecosystems: Toward a Model for Understanding and Action

by William R. Burch Jr., Gary E Machlis, Jo Ellen Force

Overview

A landmark book that strives to provide both grand theory and practical application, innovatively describing the structure and dynamics of human ecosystems

As the world faces ever more complex and demanding environmental and social challenges, the need for interdisciplinary models and practical guidance becomes acute. The Human Ecosystem Model described in this landmark book provides an innovative response. Broad in scope, detailed in method, at once theoretical and applied, this grand study offers an in-depth understanding of human ecosystems and tools for action. The authors draw from Goethe’s Faust, classic anthropology and sociology studies, contemporary ecosystem ecology, Buddhist ethics, and more to create a seminal model and a major advance in interdisciplinary ecology.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780300137033
Publisher:	Yale University Press
Publication date:	08/22/2017
Pages:	312
Product dimensions:	6.20(w) x 9.40(h) x 1.20(d)

About the Author

William R. Burch, Jr., is professor emeritus at the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. Gary E. Machlis is university professor of environmental sustainability at Clemson University. Jo Ellen Force is a professor in the College of Natural Resources at the University of Idaho.

Table of Contents

Preface vii

Acknowledgments ix

1 Introduction 1

2 An Overview of the Model 12

3 Lessons and Legacies 23

4 The Ecosystem Concept in Biology 51

5 The Roots of Human Ecology 64

6 Key Components and Variables for Analyzing Human Ecosystems 74

7 Goals, Strategies, and Tactics for Inquiry and Action 102

8 Using the Model for Science during Crisis 133

9 Revitalizing Human Communities and Reclaiming Biological Communities: The Baltimore Story 148

10 Toward a More Perfect Civic Order: Lessons Learned from Research 168

11 Extending the Capability of the Model 210

12 Leaning Forward: Future Challenges to Human Ecosystems 240

13 Conclusion 267

Notes 271

Index 293

Editorial Reviews

The ideas in this important book, if implemented cautiously, likely will determine the future prospects of Homo sapiens. . . . Essential.”—Choice

“This is an important book for conservationists, ecologists, land managers, and anyone with an interest in the role of humans in ecosystems.”—Emily K. Meineke, Quarterly Review of Biology

Winner of the Outstanding Academic Title for 2018 award sponsored by Choice
 

"An in-depth, comprehensive description of the human ecosystem model . . . Highly original and based on years of pioneering scholarship in the field."—Frederick Steiner, Dean, University of Pennsylvania School of Design

"A revelation that truly integrates human behavior with ecosystems, The Structure and Dynamics of Human Ecosystems illuminates the path to sustainability."—Thomas E. Lovejoy, University Professor of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason University; Science Envoy, Department of State

“This highly original work should be not just read, but fully absorbed by anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the current and future pathways of the human condition. Offering both a model and practical case studies of human interaction within the ecological realities and complexities imposed by the natural world, this volume guides readers seeking to contribute to the economic and ecological re-balancing of the human endeavor.”—Healy Hamilton, Chief Scientist, NatureServe

“This book argues that ecosystems include people, a concept that is one of the most important scientific developments in the last thirty years. Thus begins the journey of reintegrating people and nature into a sustainable union.”—Bernard Bormann, Professor of Forest Ecology and Director of the Olympic Natural Resources Center, University of Washington

“This fine new book embraces the complexity of human and environmental challenges, offering a framework for study and then putting it to the test with real world examples. The result is insightful, though provoking, and determinedly hopeful.”—Thor Hanson, author of The Triumph of Seeds

From the Publisher