The Science of the Struggle for Existence - On the Foundations of Ecology

Gregory Coopers study examines issues in the philosophy of ecology that have been a source of controversy since the existence of ecology as a discipline. These controversies revolve around the concept of a balance of nature; the possibility of general ecological knowledge; and the role of model-building in ecology. The analysis has cross-disciplinary appeal and will interest students and professionals in science, the philosophy of science, and environmental studies as well as policy-makers.

List of contents

Introduction; Acknowledgements; 1. The struggle for existence; 2. The roots of controversy; 3. Must there be a balance of nature?; 4. The pursuit of ecological generality; 5. Model building: a controversial craft; 6. Theoretical explanation and fundamental laws; 7. The explanatory continuum; 8. Theories, models and explanatory tools; Epilogue; References; Index.

Summary

This book is a sustained examination of issues in the philosophy of ecology that have been a source of controversy since the emergence of ecology as an explicit scientific discipline.

Product details

• Authors: Gregory J. Cooper, Cooper Gregory J.
• Publisher: Cambridge Academic
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Released: 27.10.2003
• EAN: 9780521804325
• ISBN: 978-0-521-80432-5
• Dimensions: 152 mm x 229 mm x 22 mm
• Weight: 660 g
• Illustrations: 6 b/w illus., Zeichnungen, nicht spezifiziert
• Series: Cambridge Studies in Philosoph; Cambridge Studies in Philosophy and Biology
• Subjects: Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Natural sciences (general); Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Philosophy: general, reference works; SCIENCE / Philosophy & Social Aspects, Philosophy of Science, Biology, life sciences, Ecological science, the Biosphere