The Botkin
Learning Center
Environmental Science: Earth as a Living Planet attempts to teach
the student how to think, not what to think.
Learning Objectives
Certain themes are basic to environmental
science. After reading this chapter, you
should be able to . . .
• Construct an argument to support the
the idea that people and nature are intimately
connected
• Defend or criticize the statement that human
environmental health problems are largely
caused by social phenomena and human
population increase
• Differentiate between the ways we place
value on the environment
• Define sustainability and list the major
criteria to assist in achieving sustainability
• Critically appraise the statement “think
globally and act locally”
• Compare and contrast positive and
negative aspects of the urban environment
• Support the idea that value judgments are
necessary to adopt a solution to human
population-based on scientific knowledge
• Argue in support of the Precautionary
Principle and then criticize your argument
• Synthesize the environmental implications
of the history of Easter Island
Dr. Daniel B. Botkin
Dr. Daniel B. Botkin is a scientist who studies life from a planetary perspective, a biologist who has helped solve major environmental issues, and a writer about nature. A frequent public speaker, Botkin brings an unusual perspective to his subject. Well-known for his scientific contributions in ecology and environment, he has also worked as a professional journalist and has degrees in physics, biology, and literature.
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