Biodiversity is becoming a buzzword in science and the environmental movement, and is increasingly being taught in university degree courses. This new text is designed as a primer, giving non-specialists an introduction to the historical context, current debates and ongoing research in the subject.

Table of Contents

AcknowledgmentsForeword by Edward O. Wilson1 Legacies2 Conceptual Problems with Biodiversity3 The Role of Values4 Diversity5 Mapping the Patterns of Biodiversity6 Ambiguities7 Inventories8 Articulating Goals and Setting Priorities9 Future DirectionsAfterwordBibliographyIndex