Life Stories : World-renowned Scientists Reflect on Their Lives and the Future of Life on Earth

Nearly every day, the media recount stories about the degradation of the Earth's environment; these stories are met with alarm by some and with skepticism by others.

This text presents testimony from some of the world's top environmental scientists who have seen firsthand the sobering effects of rapid global change: the extinction of species, worldwide damage to ecosystems, and the increasing alienation of human life from the natural world.

A celebration of nature, and a tribute to the role of science in preserving our endangered future, this collection presents the personal and professional reflections of 16 scientists.

Their views on the meaning and relevance of their work are interwoven with inspiring autobiographical accounts of how formative life experiences led to their research, conclusions, and activities.