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Inventing Global Ecology: Tracking the biodiversity ideal in India, 1947–1997

Author: Michael L. Lewis

Publisher: Ohio University Press

Publication date: 2004

Reviewer: Deepak Apte

EN

"Michael Lewis has … faithfully traced and eloquently recorded the labyrinthine evolution of wildlife science (now called conservation biology). From its governing ideology and practice in India, he moves through the highways and byways (many of them literal, rather than figurative) of history, international politics (and politicking), Indian nationalism and nation-building. He even takes in the 'anthropology of science', the changing face of global scientific debate, and the evolution of field biology itself. […] Lewis [questions] whether the import of scientific techniques, legislative measures (such as prohibiting human habitation in wildlife sanctuaries) and methods of enquiry (for example, using expensive radio collars in developing countries) in wildlife science and management is meaningful or useful. This discussion is pertinent not only to wildlife science but to all spheres of enquiry."

Link to full book review in Nature  

Price: US$26

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