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triumphal_reads's review against another edition
challenging
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.25
schnoebs13's review against another edition
4.0
I wanted to rate this lower because I already knew a wide amount of the information that was presented in this book. If I was going off of that I would have probably given it 3 stars but reflecting on the way the information was explained as well as the general communication techniques is was really won me over. E O Wilson has an excellent way of communicating science to the general public and specific groups that generally push back against the scientific community; especially on topics like climate change and funding conservation projects for endangered species.
I think this book has a very wide audience and should be read by people interested in conservation, have concerns about the connections between religion and science, and any scientists interested in a good quality example of how to communicate their area of expertise to the public.
I think this book has a very wide audience and should be read by people interested in conservation, have concerns about the connections between religion and science, and any scientists interested in a good quality example of how to communicate their area of expertise to the public.
jhoover's review against another edition
2.0
The problem I have with this book is that Wilson seems to conflate an enlightenment based secular humanism with science, though this is not necessarily the case. Science in itself is not contrary to Christiany and not all Christians are conservative creationists. As a Christian, I have no problem with the science in this book and many eco-theologians have longed grappled with this scientific evidence. Wilson lays out well the bad state we are in and he does a really does do a great job in reinstilling an awe for our home-but I also don't think this awe, especially in strictly biological terms, will by itself save creation. Real connection and understanding is needed if we are as a united humanity going to reverse our negative impacts on the environment.
alexisixela14's review against another edition
3.0
since i’m not religious i’m not really the target audience for this book but i still love reading about conservation of biodiversity and showing love for nature!!!!
jclare2's review against another edition
2.0
E.O. Wilson is compelling, as ever. But I bought the book for its premise of making a plea to a Baptist minister for science and religion to find common ground in the cause of conservation (and, thus, the obvious link to my current work). Unfortunately, this premise was the weakest part of the book. He couldn't stop justifying and defending his science-based point-of-view long enough to actually address the common ground with religion for more than a few paragraphs, and typically without any tone of actual respect for a Baptist's point-of-view. A disappointment.
emonroe26's review against another edition
2.0
I had some problems with this book. I really liked the argument format in theory and I think the idea of writing about biodiversity aimed at traditionalist Christian ministers was really interesting. However, I found that the argument seemed to carry a very narrow scope and often seemed to forget about the literal Bible interpretation audience that it is posed to speak to. I also just found a lot of the discussion of biodiversity dull, but that is more of a personal interest thing, not as much of an issue that the book had.
jdoetsch's review against another edition
4.0
Beautifully written call to action towards religious leaders to help prevent the continued loss of Earth's biodiversity. Amazed at how passionate this man is about this subject without getting preachy about it. Would definitely recommend to that religious person you know.
poeticsinglemama's review against another edition
5.0
Beautifully written in the form of a letter, appealing to the morality of religious folk in getting them to see why the fight to save the planet should matter to them!