Endangered Species: A Documentary and Reference Guide

This book uses primary documents as a lens through which to examine historical and present-day efforts to protect endangered species in the United States and around the world.

In this thought-provoking work, author Edward P. Weber examines the values, policies, challenges, and approaches to endangered species conservation over the past 200 years. Using primary source documents and in-depth analysis of the issues, the reference tracks the evolution of species protection and conservation in the United States, and offers a brief look at global programs in the United States and other parts of the world. The book surveys how different countries are faring in protecting their plant and animal life, and considers which guidelines and programs hold the most promise for success in the future.

Chapters compare and contrast past and present attitudes regarding endangered species and extinction and identify the influence of major organizations and individuals central to the debate over endangered species. Judiciously selected primary documents also explore the impact of species endangerment and loss on natural ecosystems-and ultimately, on humankind itself.

Analyzes the connections between human behavior, industrialization, modernization, and public policy, and examines the impact of these factors on various species

Integrates a breadth of topics including economics, history, philosophy, sociology, and politics and policymaking

Explores historic events and major points of contention in species protection efforts

Suggests possible policy approaches and reforms that can make existing policies more effective in tackling the challenges of stemming species decline