Animal Behaviour: An Evolutionary Approach

by JohnAlcock (Author)

• Used

  Hardcover
  1997

  $3.25

  This edition has been completely rewritten and reorganized to include discoveries in the field and over 100 new illustrations. The author analyzes all aspects of the subject, stressing the utility of evolutionary theory in unifying different behavioural disciplines. However, the book treats both the ranging proximate mechanisms and the evolutionary, or ultimate causes of behaviour. The first chapter introduces the distinction between the two, and the rest of the text is organized into two main sections devoted to each. Examples are drawn from studies of invertibrates and vertibrates, and are supported by more than 1300 reference citations, many to recent articles. The book also emphasizes the tentative nature of scientific conclusions and identifies controversial and unresolved issues.

• Used

  Hardcover
  2001

  $3.25

  It is distinguished by its balanced treatment of both the underlying mechanisms and evolutionary causes of behaviour, and stresses the utility of evolutionary theory in unifying the different behavioural disciplines. Important concepts are explained by reference to key illustrative studies, which are described in sufficient detail to help students appreciate the role of the scientific process in producing research discoveries. Examples are drawn evenly from studies of invertebrates and vertebrates, and are supported by nearly 1300 reference citations. The writing style is clear: beginning students should have no difficulty following the material, despite the strong conceptual orientation of the text.