Future Evolution

From Library Journal Ward (geologic sciences, zoology, paleontology, Univ. of Washington, Seattle; The Call of Distant Mammoths) counters the majority of scientists who predict the extinction of our species as the price for the harm we've inflicted on our environment and on species worldwide. The future he forecasts is more chilling; Ward states unequivocally that humans are virtually "extinction-proof" owing to their ability to alter environmental conditions and insulate themselves from adverse conditions that affect every other species. Describing mass extinction as the primary catalyst for evolutionary change throughout our planet's history, the author makes a compelling case that we are well into the extinction phase of the Age of Megamammals and that future evolution will be seriously hampered by the lack of species diversity. He also foresees humankind's evolving alongside machines, in company with genetically altered plants that will infest the world as weeds and cloned animal species devoid of any evolutionary spark. Written in accessible prose by an expert in extinction theory with 37 color illustrations by top science illustrator Rockman, this book is highly recommended for its unique viewpoint and synthesis of scientific data. For public and academic libraries. Gloria Maxwell, Penn Valley Community Coll., Kansas City, MO Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc. From