Written by a practicing paleoecologist and award-winning author, this guide explores life on earth from a paleoecological perspective. Reflecting the modern theoretical work of Robert May and his colleagues, this comprehensive survey covers ecosystem processes, species strategies, social systems, community building, ecosystem stability, population ecology, individual adaptation and species diversity. Includes extensive treatments of physical and chemical systems--from geochemistry to soil science and climate. Uses pictorial cartoons to emphasize key points and includes a minimum of mathematics.