Understanding Species

A concise and accessible introduction to the concept of species, exploring its historical, biological and philosophical uses.

John S. Wilkins (Author)

9781108987196, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 20 April 2023

150 pages
17.8 x 12.6 x 1 cm, 0.17 kg

'This book is a stunning achievement, and I think nobody other than Wilkins could have tied together the disparate perspectives needed to write it. Species problems are notoriously thorny and multi-disciplinary, yet Wilkins manages to shine great light on them. Most impressively he does this in ways that many people, rather than just species experts, can understand, engage, and enjoy. The writing is snappy, the choice of topics smart, and the rewards for readers will be many.' Matthew J. Barker, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Concordia University, Montréal

Are species worth saving? Can they be resurrected by technology? What is the use of species in biomedicine? These questions all depend on a clear definition of the concept of 'species', yet biologists have long struggled to define this term. In this accessible book, John S. Wilkins provides an introduction to the concept of 'species' in biology, philosophy, ethics, policymaking and conservation. Using clear language and easy-to-understand examples throughout, the book provides a history of species and why we use them. It encourages readers to appreciate the philosophical depth of the concept as well as its connections to logic and science. For any interested reader, this short text highlights the complexities of a single idea in biology, the problems with the concept of 'species' and the benefits of it in helping us to answer the bigger questions and understand our living world.

Foreword
Preface
1. How species matter
2. Classifying species
3. Making species
4. A short history of species and kinds
5. Philosophy and species
6. Finding species
7. Extinction, or how species are lost
8. The value of species
9. Replacing species
10. Conclusions and summary
Summary of misunderstandings of species
Readings
Figure credits
Index.

Subject Areas: Evolution [PSAJ]