Western Civilization in Biological Perspective

The author explores the patterns of interplay between the biological and cultural processes in human affairs, beginning with the emergence in evolution of "homo sapiens" and carries his survey through the early farming and urban phases of human existence up to the present day. He considers in particular the impact of societal developments on biological systems. His focus here is on the productivity of ecosystems and the health and well-being of humans. He goes on to consider the adaptive processes that come into play when the consequences of these impacts are perceived to be undesirable. Throughout the text the author draws attention to evolutionary, ecological, and biosocial principles that are important to the understanding of human situations. In conclusion, he considers the concepts set out in the book in relation to the problems of mankind's survival in the modern world, and society's options for the future.