The Biology of Wonder

Author: Andreas Weber
Publisher: New Society Publishers
ISBN: 1550925946
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 386

Book Description
A new way of understanding our place in the web of life from a scholar praised for his “graceful prose” (Publishers Weekly). The disconnection between humans and nature is perhaps one of the most fundamental problems faced by our species today. This schism is arguably the root cause of most of the environmental catastrophes unraveling around us. Until we come to terms with the depths of our alienation, we will continue to fail to understand that what happens to nature also happens to us. In The Biology of Wonder Andreas Weber proposes a new approach to the biological sciences that puts the human back in nature. He argues that feelings and emotions, far from being superfluous to the study of organisms, are the very foundation of life. From this basic premise flows the development of a "poetic ecology" which intimately connects our species to everything that surrounds us—showing that subjectivity and imagination are prerequisites of biological existence. Written by a leader in the emerging fields of biopoetics and biosemiotics, The Biology of Wonder demonstrates that there is no separation between us and the world we inhabit, and in so doing it validates the essence of our deep experience. By reconciling science with meaning, expression, and emotion, this landmark work brings us to a crucial understanding of our place in the rich and diverse framework of life—a revolution for biology as groundbreaking as the theory of relativity for physics. “Grounded in science, yet eloquently narrated, this is a groundbreaking book. Weber’s visionary work provides new insight into human/nature interconnectedness and the dire consequences we face by remaining disconnected.” —Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods

Enlivenment

Author: Andreas Weber
Publisher: MIT Press
ISBN: 0262352281
Category : Philosophy
Languages : en
Pages : 207

Book Description
A new understanding of the Anthropocene that is based on mutual transformation with nature rather than control over nature. We have been told that we are living in the Anthropocene, a geological era shaped by humans rather than by nature. In Enlivenment, German philosopher Andreas Weber presents an alternative understanding of our relationship with nature, arguing not that humans control nature but that humans and nature exist in a commons of mutual transformation. There is no nature–human dualism, he contends, because the fundamental dimension of existence is shared in what he calls "aliveness." All subjectivity is intersubjectivity. Self is self-through-other. Seeing all beings in a common household of matter, desire, and imagination, an economy of metabolic and economic transformation, is “enlivenment.” This perspective allows us to move beyond Enlightenment-style thinking that strips material reality of any subjectivity. To take this step, Weber argues, we need to supplant the concept of techné with the concept of poiesis as the element that brings forth reality. In a world not divided into things and ideas, culture and nature, reality arises from the creation of relationships and continuous fertile transformations; any thinking in terms of relationships comes about as a poetics. The self is always a function of the whole; the whole is equally a function of the individual. Only this integrated freedom allows humanity to reconcile with the natural world. This first English edition of Enlivenment has been expanded and updated from the German edition.

Matter and Desire

Author: Andreas Weber
Publisher: Chelsea Green Publishing
ISBN: 1603586970
Category : Nature
Languages : en
Pages : 258

Book Description
Nautilus Award Gold Medal Winner, Ecology & Environment In Matter and Desire, internationally renowned biologist and philosopher Andreas Weber rewrites ecology as a tender practice of forging relationships, of yearning for connections, and of expressing these desires through our bodies. Being alive is an erotic process--constantly transforming the self through contact with others, desiring ever more life. In clever and surprising ways, Weber recognizes that love--the impulse to establish connections, to intermingle, to weave our existence poetically together with that of other beings--is a foundational principle of reality. The fact that we disregard this principle lies at the core of a global crisis of meaning that plays out in the avalanche of species loss and in our belief that the world is a dead mechanism controlled through economic efficiency. Although rooted in scientific observation, Matter and Desire becomes a tender philosophy for the Anthropocene, a "poetic materialism," that closes the gap between mind and matter. Ultimately, Weber discovers, in order to save life on Earth--and our own meaningful existence as human beings--we must learn to love.

The Vast Wonder of World

Author: Mélina Mangal
Publisher: Millbrook Press ™
ISBN: 1541537955
Category : Juvenile Nonfiction
Languages : en
Pages : 41

Book Description
"A must-purchase picture book biography of a figure sure to inspire awe and admiration among readers."—School Library Journal (starred review) Extraordinary illustrations and lyrical text present pioneering African American scientist Ernest Everett Just. Ernest Everett Just was not like other scientists of his time. He saw the whole, where others saw only parts. He noticed details others failed to see. He persisted in his research despite the discrimination and limitations imposed on him as an African American. His keen observations of sea creatures revealed new insights about egg cells and the origins of life. Through stunning illustrations and lyrical prose, this picture book presents the life and accomplishments of this long overlooked scientific pioneer.

The Wonder of Water

Author: Michael Denton
Publisher: Discovery Institute
ISBN: 9781936599479
Category : Nature
Languages : en
Pages : 226

Book Description
"From roaring waterfalls and crashing waves to gentle rain and billowing clouds, water pervades our planet's majestic biosphere. It is easy to take for granted. But this ever-present substance is amazingly fit in a myriad of ways to sustain life on Earth, especially human life ... In [this book], Denton delves deep into this grand, untold story and explores how water is specially equipped to allow life to flourish on our blue planet"--Back cover.

The Ecology Book

Author: Jean Lightner
Publisher: New Leaf Publishing Group
ISBN: 161458317X
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 93

Book Description
Study the relationship between living organisms and our place in God's wondrous creation! Learn important words and concepts from different habitats around the world to mutual symbiosis as a product of the relational character of God. Designed with a multi-age level format especially for homeschool educational programs. Examine influential Scientists and their work, more fully understand practical aspects of stewardship, and investigate ecological connections in creation! The best-selling Wonders of Creation series adds a new biology-focused title that unveils the intricate nature of God's world and the harmony that was broken by sin. This educational resource is color-coded with three educational levels in mind: 5th to 6th grades, 7th to 8th grades, and 9th through 11th grades, which can be utilized for the classroom, independent study, or homeschool setting. Whether used as part of our newly developed science curriculum or simply as a unique unit study, the book includes full-color photos, informative illustrations, and meaningful descriptions. The text encourages an understanding of a world designed, not as a series of random evolutionary accidents, but instead as a wondrous, well-designed system of life around the globe created to enrich and support one another.

Plankton

Author: Christian Sardet
Publisher: University of Chicago Press
ISBN: 022618871X
Category : Nature
Languages : en
Pages : 223

Book Description
A sequence of elaborate close-up photographs of a diverse range of plankton organisms displays their phosphorescent beauty and translucent colors against contrasting black backgrounds while offering historical and scientific discussions for each depicted species. --Publisher's description.

The Blue Wonder

Author: Frauke Bagusche
Publisher: Greystone Books Ltd
ISBN: 1771646055
Category : Nature
Languages : en
Pages : 207

Book Description
An intimate account of the beauty, mystery, and amazing science of the ocean. In The Blue Wonder, marine biologist and diver Frauke Bagusche brings readers on a fascinating and beautiful deep-sea dive into the ocean. Drawing on scientific discoveries and her own research, she uses photographs and playful prose to reveal: deep-sea reefs that glitter like glass fish that converse with each other by singing––loudly an octopus that imitates more than fifteen other animals the secret behind why the sea glows at night “weddings” that happen amongst the coral underwater “drugstores” and even fish that clean her own teeth! Humans know more about the moon’s surface than we do about the ocean. There is so much to be discovered, under the sea. With the heart of a poet and the mind of a scientist, Frauke Bagusche re-awakens our love for the sea and ignites a desire to protect this vital habitat.

The Outdoor Scientist

Author: Temple Grandin, Ph.D.
Publisher: Penguin
ISBN: 0593115562
Category : Juvenile Nonfiction
Languages : en
Pages : 209

Book Description
From New York Times bestselling author and world-renowned scientist and autism spokesperson Temple Grandin comes a book about exploring the world around us, asking questions, and making sense of what we see--with 40 fun outdoor activities that promote independent thinking, which kids can enjoy all year round! What are the aerodynamics of skipping stones or the physics of making sandcastles? Do birds use GPS to navigate their migratory routes? In this book, Dr. Temple Grandin, an inventor and world-renowned scientist, introduces readers to geologists, astrophysicists, oceanographers, and many other scientists who unlock the wonders of the natural world. She shares her childhood experiences and observations, whether on the beach, in the woods, working with horses, or gazing up at the night sky. This book explores all areas of nature and gives readers the tools to discover even more on their own. With forty projects to give readers a deeper understanding of the world around them, from the depths of space to their own backyard, this is a perfect read for budding scientists, inventors, and creators! Praise for The Outdoor Scientist: * "This terrific science book will appeal to both teachers and young readers who love to be outdoors." --School Library Connection, *STARRED REVIEW* "Grandin’s words are a rallying cry for budding scientists and she serves as a role model for young readers with autism. This is an important STEM and STEAM resource for every collection." --School Library Journal "The book is chock-full of information . . . the kind a nature-loving child will be thrilled to discover. An invitation to young readers to observe, enjoy, and learn about the world around us all." --Kirkus Reviews

The Wonder Down Under

Author: Nina Brochmann
Publisher: Yellow Kite
ISBN: 1473666910
Category : Health & Fitness
Languages : en
Pages : 315

Book Description
'The Wonder Down Under is set to do for the vagina what Guilia Enders' Gut did for our digestive system a few years ago.' - Stylist 'This new guide should be on every woman's shelf' - Emerald Street 'A vital publication - it deserves to be a hit' - The Press Association 'Tells you everything you need to know' - Fabulous The Wonder Down Under explains everything you ever wanted to know about the vagina but didn't dare ask. Learn the truth about the clitoris' inner life, the menstrual hormone dance and whether the vaginal orgasm really exists. The book helps you understand how different types of contraception work in the body, what a "normal" vulva looks like and how wearing socks can change your sex life. Medical students and sex educators Nina Brochmann and Ellen Støkken Dahl draw on their medical expertise to bring vagina enlightenment to the world. Their no-nonsense approach, written with great humour, makes this a must-read for women (and men!) of all ages. Say goodbye to the myths and misconceptions surrounding female anatomy, this is a timely and empowering book that will inspire women to make informed choices about their sexual health. Listen to Nina and Ellen on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour here: bbc.in/2D3Svjh Or watch their myth-busting TED talk 'The virginity fraud': www.ted.com/talks/nina_dolvik_brochmann_and_ellen_stokken_dahl_the_virginity_fraud