The Economics and Ecology of Biodiversity Decline: The Forces Driving Global Change [Paperback]

Timothy M. Swanson (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 28, 1998

The cause of global change has been the subject of heated debate in the past few years, especially in relation to climate change and biodiversity decline. However, a systematic explanation for changes in the biosphere at the global level has still not been found. In this volume, a wide range of viewpoints from ecology and economics are surveyed to see if some light can be shed on this problem. Economists analyze how economic growth predictably alters the earth, and ecologists consider how the drive for fitness and consequent population growth changes the globe. Both look at the institutional interface between humans and biosphere, and explain global change as the consequence of human noncooperation and conflict. The object of this volume is to initiate debate among economists, ecologists and conservationists on global change at this most fundamental level.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"...a useful contribution to the literature on biodiversity and the causes of its decline. It is well organized and exhibits the fundamental characteristic of biodiversity: diversity of opinion." Global Biodiversity

"For policy planners, this volume offers a useful outline of causal mechanisms of biodiversity loss and a portfolio of perspectives to compare. In a policy area as complex and multifaceted as biodiversity loss, establishing interdisciplinary connections is critical. This volume is a positive step in that direction." David W. Cash, Harvard University, Journal of Economic Literature

Book Description

Although global change is subject to much debate, the ultimate causes of climate change and biodiversity decline are little understood. In this volume, a wide variety of viewpoints have been sought from ecologists and economists in order find a systematic explanation for changes in the biosphere at the global level. The purpose of this volume is not to give a definitive answer, but to initiate debate on global change at this more fundamental level.

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (June 28, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521635799
• ISBN-13: 978-0521635790
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,221,144 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)