Essentials of Ecology

Miller (Earth Education and Research) introduces basic ecological concepts in this book/CD-ROM text containing the first 13 chapters of the 14th edition of his longer text, Living in the Environment. This third edition is divided into parts on major environmental problems, basic science and principles of ecology, and biodiversity. Each chapter begins with a brief case study, and other case studies are found throughout the text. Other learning features are key terms, critical thinking and review questions, and summaries. The art program offers numerous color explanatory diagrams and photos, and the accompanying CD-ROM contains concept summaries and animations. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

GG. Tyler Miller, Jr., has written 58 textbooks for introductory courses in environmental science, basic ecology, energy, and environmental chemistry. They include ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE, LIVING IN THE ENVIRONMENT, SUSTAINING THE EARTH, and ESSENTIALS OF ECOLOGY. Since 1975, Miller's books have been the most widely used textbooks for environmental science in the United States and throughout the world. They have been used by almost 3 million students and have been translated into eight languages. Miller has a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia and has received two honorary doctorate degrees for his contributions to environmental education. He taught college for 20 years and developed an innovative interdisciplinary undergraduate science program before deciding to write environmental science textbooks full time since 1975. Currently, he is the President of Earth Education and Research, devoted to improving environmental education. He describes his hopes for the future as follows: If I had to pick a time to be alive, it would be the next 75 years. Why? First, there is overwhelming scientific evidence that we are in the process of seriously degrading our own life support system. In other words, we are living unsustainably. Second, within your [students'] lifetime we have the opportunity to learn how to live more sustainably by working with the rest of nature, as described in this book."