archive

A new understanding of animals

A review of The Social Amoebae: The Biology of Cellular Slime Molds by John Tyler Bonner. Simon Schama reviews books on the collective societies and epic micro-universes occupied by insects. What do George W. Bush, Roy Orbison and Darth Vader have in common? All three have had new beetle species named after them. A review of The Dangerous World of Butterflies: The Startling Subculture of Criminals, Collectors, and Conservationists by Peter Laufer. Pigeons have long been maligned in favour of fancier fowl; don't they now deserve a reprieve? From Seed, six experts discuss the global fisheries crisis and what it will take to make fish stocks bounce back. A look at how "hippy" monkey muriqui is a killer when starved of sex. A review of The Hedgehog's Dilemma: A Tale of Obsession, Nostalgia, and the World's Most Charming Mammal by Hugh Warwick. A review of Dogs: History, Myth, Art by Catherine Johns. Why do we treat dogs and pigs so differently? The answer has to do with simple, mutual obligation. A review of Why Animal Suffering Matters: Philosophy, Theology, and Practical Ethics by Andrew Linzey. A review of The Wauchula Woods Accord: Toward a New Understanding of Animals by Charles Siebert (and more). Should species be relocated to prevent extinction? Here's a slide show of 10 ugly animals that need help, too. Constance Casey profiles the most disgusting animals you're ever likely to meet. An article on Japan as a nation of animal lovers — as pets or when they're on a plate. Here are the 6 most frequently quoted bullshit animal facts.