The Structure and Dynamics of Human Ecosystems: Toward a Model for Understanding and Action

by William R. Burch, Gary E Machlis, Jo Ellen Force

A landmark book that strives to provide both grand theory and practical application, innovatively describing the structure and dynamics of human ecosystems

As the world faces ever more complex and demanding environmental and social challenges, the need for interdisciplinary models and practical guidance becomes acute. The Human Ecosystem Model described in this landmark book provides an innovative response. Broad in scope, detailed in method, at once theoretical and applied, this grand study offers an in-depth understanding of human ecosystems and tools for action. The authors draw from Goethe’s Faust , classic anthropology and sociology studies, contemporary ecosystem ecology, Buddhist ethics, and more to create a seminal model and a major advance in interdisciplinary ecology.

312 pages, Hardcover

Published August 22, 2017

About the author

William R. Burch has held research and management positions with the USDA Forest Service, USAID, National Park Service, and the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, and is the Frederick C. Hixon Professor Emeritus of Natural Resource Management and Senior Research Scientist at Yale University. His work on wildland recreation behavior was among the earliest, and it expanded to include parks, biosphere reserves, and ecotourist regions in rural and urban areas in Asia, South America, and Europe, as well as in North America. He conducted some of the original work on community/social forestry systems and forestry strategies for urban neighborhoods. His work in institutional development has included technical training and higher education curriculum development in South and Southeast Asia.