Western Civilization in Biological Perspective: Patterns in Biohistory

This original and wide-ranging work draws upon extensive research to explore the interplay between biological and cultural processes in human affairs. Going beyond the conventional historical treatment of biological and human patterns, Boyden considers the early evolutionary emergence of humankind, and focuses on the productivity of ecosystems and the impact of social and technological developments on human health and well-being. Throughout the text Boyden refers to evolutionary, ecological, and biosocial principles, and examines these concepts in relation to problems of survival in the modern world and in formulating societal options for the future.