Ethnobiology (ePub)

The single comprehensive treatment of the field, from the leading
members of the Society of Ethnobiology



The field of ethnobiology--the study of relationships
between particular ethnic groups and their native plants and
animals--has grown very rapidly in recent years, spawning
numerous subfields. Ethnobiological research has produced a wide
range of medicines, natural products, and new crops, as well as
striking insights into human cognition, language, and environmental
management behavior from prehistory to the present.

This is the single authoritative source on ethnobiology,
covering all aspects of the field as it is currently defined.
Featuring contributions from experienced scholars and sanctioned by
the Society of Ethnobiology, this concise, readable volume provides
extensive coverage of ethical issues and practices as well as
archaeological, ethnological, and linguistic approaches.

Emphasizing basic principles and methodology, this unique
textbook offers a balanced treatment of all the major subfields
within ethnobiology, allowing students to begin guided research in
any related area--from archaeoethnozoology to ethnomycology to
agroecology. Each chapter includes a basic introduction to each
topic, is written by a leading specialist in the specific area
addressed, and comes with a full bibliography citing major works in
the area. All chapters cover recent research, and many are new in
approach; most chapters present unpublished or very recently
published new research. Featured are clear, distinctive treatments
of areas such as ethnozoology, linguistic ethnobiology, traditional
education, ethnoecology, and indigenous perspectives. Methodology
and ethical action are also covered up to current practice.

Ethnobiology is a specialized textbook for advanced
undergraduates and graduate students; it is suitable for
advanced-level ethnobotany, ethnobiology, cultural and political
ecology, and archaeologically related courses. Research institutes
will also find this work valuable, as will any reader with an
interest in ethnobiological fields.