From Book News, Inc.
Cunningham (U. of Minnesota) and Saigo (Saiwood Publications) cover a lot of ground in this textbook for use in a one- or two-semester course in environmental science, human ecology, or environmental studies for freshman and sophomore non-science majors (or advanced- placement highschool students). The cover has a lovely photo of an Inuk hunter jumping across ice floes as he looks for seals--fitting for a text that covers many topics but makes few judgements. The CD- ROM contains animations, interactive exercises, and quizes.Book News, Inc.®, Portland, OR

Book Description
This book is intended for use in a one- or two-semester course in environmental science, human ecology, or environmental studies at the college or advanced placement high school level. Because most students who will use this book are freshman or sophomore nonscience majors, the authors have tried to make the text readable and accessible without technical jargon or a presumption of prior science background. At the same time, enough data and depth are presented to make this book suitable for many upper-division classes and a valuable resource for students who will keep it in their personal libraries after their formal studies are completed. The goal of this book is to provide an up-to-date, introductory view of essential themes in environmental science along with emphasis on details and case studies that will help students process and retain the general principles.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

This book is intended for use in a one- or two-semester course in environmental science, human ecology, or environmental studies at the college or advanced placement high school level. Because most students who will use this book are freshman or sophomore nonscience majors, the authors have tried to make the text readable and accessible without technical jargon or a presumption of prior science background. At the same time, enough data and depth are presented to make this book suitable for many upper-division classes and a valuable resource for students who will keep it in their personal libraries after their formal studies are completed. The goal of this book is to provide an up-to-date, introductory view of essential themes in environmental science along with emphasis on details and case studies that will help students process and retain the general principles.

SYNOPSIS

This book is designed to be useful as a self-education tool for students. To facilitate studying and encourage higher-level thinking, each chapter begins with a set of Objectives based on major concepts that students should master, and a listing of ESP CD-ROM Topics that are chapter-related. A short Opening Story, taken from recent news events, follows, setting the subject in context and illuminating the importance of the material to be discussed. Key Terms, indicated by boldfaced type, are defined in context where they are first used and are also listed in the Glossary for quick reference.

Case Studies, "In Depth" Boxes, and "What Do You Think" Essays, many with "Ethical Considerations" attached, five students real-life examples to evaluate and a chance to practice critical thinking skills and formulate reasoned opinions. These boxes are carefully planned to build upon chapter content and are long enough to present important, real information. The "What Can You Do?" Listings help student to learn that small, individual steps can make a real difference in affecting our environment.

Profiles of ordinary people in environmental careers are scattered throughout the text. Giving students models with whom they can identify will help them consider how they might pursue a career in an environmental area.

At the end of each chapter, a Summary and a set of Questions for Review provide an opportunity for students to test their understanding of the material just covered, while Questions for Critical Thinking are designed to stimulate creative, analytical thinking and to serve as a springboard for class discussions. Additional Information on the Internet lists import chapter topics for which there are hyperlinks, available on the accompanying website, to help students with study and research.

FROM THE CRITICS

Booknews

A text for a one- or two-semester undergraduate course in environmental science, human ecology, or environmental studies, for students with little or no science background. Contains sections on population biology, biological resources, physical resources, and the interactions between society and the environment, emphasizing the global environment, environmental justice, and sustainable development. Includes key terms and concepts, chapter summaries, boxed readings, and review and critical thinking questions, plus color photos and diagrams. This fourth edition offers a Glesonian rather than a deterministic perspective. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

AUTHOR DESCRIPTION

William P. Cunningham is Distinguished Teaching Professor of Biology at the University of Minnesota, where he has been on the faculty for 35 years. A member of the programs in Conservation Biology, Environmental Learning and Leadership, the MacArthur Program in Global Change, and the Institute for Social, Ecological and Economic Sustainability, his teaching now focuses mainly on environmental science and environmental ethics. He has been a visiting professor or research scientist in Sweden, Norway, Indonesia, and China as well as several Universities and laboratories in the United States. The author or co-author of approximately 50 research articles and reviews, Professor Cunningham is managing editor for the Environmental Encyclopedia published by Gale Research.