Libros de Ciencias Naturales. Estudios y ensayos, página 5 de 22

In "Steep Trails," John Muir offers a captivating exploration of the American wilderness, weaving together personal recollections, philosophical musings, and vivid descriptions of natures grandeur. His lyrical prose illuminates the intricate beauty of landscapes ranging from the Sierra Nevada to the Canadian Rockies, detailing not only the physical world but also the spiritual connection Muir felt with nature. This work emerges from the rich tradition of American Romanticism, reflecting the transcendental belief in natures power to enlighten and uplift the human spirit, while also serving as an early advocacy for environmental conservation. John Muir, often hailed as the Father of the National Parks, was profoundly influenced by his extensive travels and deep-rooted appreciation for the natural world. His experiences as a naturalist and activist during the late 19th and early 20th centuries informed his passionate writings. Muirs commitment to preserving the wilderness of America led him to articulate the profound relationship between humans and the environment, making his insights not only personal but also universal. "Steep Trails" is an essential read for anyone captivated by the beauty of nature or interested in environmental conservation. Muirs reflections invite readers to see the world through the eyes of a devoted naturalist, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the wild places we often take for granted.

In The Natural History of Pliny (Vol. 1-6), Pliny the Elder presents an expansive and systematic exploration of the natural world, melding empirical observation with a philosophical perspective. This monumental work, composed in the first century AD, serves as one of the earliest encyclopedias, encompassing a vast array of topics from astronomy to botany, geography to zoology. Plinys literary style is characterized by its encyclopedic ambition and meticulous detail, offering insights enriched by the knowledge of his time while integrating anecdotes and personal reflections that breathe life into cold data. This scholarly narrative not only catalogues nature but also reflects the Roman intellectual zeitgeist, where the pursuit of knowledge was paramount. Pliny himself was a multifaceted individual, serving as a naval and army commander, an imperial official, and a naturalist, all of which influenced his inquiry into the natural phenomena surrounding him. His keen observations, often informed by firsthand experiences across the Roman Empire, enrich his analysis. Notably, the tragedy of his untimely death during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius serves as a poignant testament to his relentless curiosity about nature, encapsulating the spirit of inquiry that permeates his writings. This foundational text is highly recommended for scholars, historians, and enthusiasts of natural history alike. As a cornerstone of scientific literature, Plinys Natural History invites readers to traverse the complexities of the natural world through the lens of one of antiquitys most astute observers. Engage with this timeless work to appreciate the legacy of knowledge that continues to influence the disciplines of science and natural philosophy.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the authors life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

En "Paisajes", Miguel de Unamuno nos ofrece una colección de ensayos que trascienden el mero paisaje físico para adentrarse en la exploración del paisaje existencial y espiritual del ser humano. Su estilo literario se caracteriza por una prosa introspectiva, llena de matices filosoficos que revelan su profunda preocupacion por la identidad, la muerte y la inmortalidad. En este contexto literario del siglo XX, donde la angustia existencial comienza a ser un tema recurrente, Unamuno se destaca por su habilidad para entrelazar la naturaleza con la experiencia humana, creando un dialogo material y metafisico que invita a la reflexion. Miguel de Unamuno, figura crucial de la generacion del 98, se forjo entre las convulsiones sociales y politicas de España, lo que le llevo a cuestionar la esencia de la identidad española y la existencia misma. Su conexion con su tierra natal de Bilbao y su profunda admiracion por la literatura y la filosofia son el motor que impulsa sus reflexiones en "Paisajes". A traves de su vida y obra, Unamuno trata de reconciliar su angustia personal con la busqueda de sentido en un mundo en crisis. Recomiendo encarecidamente "Paisajes" a aquellos interesados en la interseccion entre filosofia y literatura, asi como a quienes buscan una profunda comprension de la condicion humana. Este libro no solo proporciona una rica experiencia estetica, sino que tambien invita a los lectores a confrontar sus propios paisajes internos, lo que lo convierte en una lectura esencial en la busqueda de la verdad y la autenticidad.

La presencia cotidiana del agua en la vida diaria nos impide reflexionar sobre su naturaleza e importancia para la vida en el planeta. Sin embargo, la problemática ecológica ha convertido a este líquido en un tema de actualidad. Puesto que el agua es una necesidad fundamental para la conservacion de la vida, se impone un conocimiento a un nivel mas profundo sobre el tema, y este libro es una aportacion en ese sentido.

Se trata de un texto introductorio al concepto de "revolución científica". En la primera parte se aborda la polémica entre aquellos que apoyan la idea de la continuidad del desarrollo científico (Sarton, Whewell, Dijksterhuis ) y aquellos que ven en la historia de la ciencia como una sucesion entre periodos de estabilidad y periodos de revolucion conceptual (Kuhn, Duhem, Koyre). La segunda parte estudia los casos de diversos personajes -Aristoteles, Galeno, Descartes y Newton, por ejemplo-, considerados los protagonistas de distintas revoluciones cientificas.

In "Walden, Walking & Civil Disobedience," Henry David Thoreau presents a profound meditation on nature, self-reliance, and the critique of societal norms. The collections centerpiece, "Walden," recounts Thoreaus two-year stint living in a cabin beside Walden Pond, where he explores themes of simple living in natural surroundings, the importance of solitude, and the deeper meaning of life away from the constraints of modern civilization. Coupled with his essays on transcendentalist philosophy and the practice of civil disobedience, these writings reflect Thoreaus eloquent and poetic prose style, steeped in rich imagery and philosophical depth. Contextually, this work emerged during a period of American romanticism and reform, presenting a counter-narrative to industrialization and rampant materialism of the 19th century. Thoreau, an ardent advocate for environmental conservation and social justice, drew inspiration from his experiences in nature and his philosophical conversations with contemporaries like Ralph Waldo Emerson. His impassioned stance against slavery and governmental injustice further catalyzed his writings in "Civil Disobedience," where he underscores the moral imperative of resisting unjust laws. Thoreaus life in Concord, Massachusetts, marked by his affinity for solitude and contemplation, fundamentally shaped his critical worldview. This essential collection is indispensable for readers seeking philosophical insights and profound commentary on personal autonomy, ethics, and our relationship with nature. Thoreaus enduring relevance, coupled with his eloquent prose, offers both an intellectual challenge and an invitation to reflect on ones role within the larger tapestry of life. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Thoreau or a newcomer to his thought, this work will undoubtedly enrich your understanding of not only Thoreaus philosophies but also the human experience itself.

In "The Natural History of Pliny (Vol. 1-6)", Pliny the Elder offers an unparalleled compendium that encapsulates the breadth of ancient knowledge and inquiry. Written in the 1st century CE, this monumental work spans various disciplines, including astronomy, geography, botany, and zoology, employing a meticulous yet narrative-driven style that reflects the Roman quest for understanding the natural world. Plinys organizational structure of booksranging from cosmology to the properties of mineralsinvites readers into a scholarly discourse, revealing the interconnectedness of nature while simultaneously reflecting the intellectual currents of his time, characterized by a blend of empirical observation and mythological interpretation. Pliny, a Roman author and naturalist, was motivated by a profound curiosity about the world and a desire to preserve knowledge. His experiences as a military commander and a public official allowed him unique insights into the practical applications of natural history, including agriculture and medicine. This background, intertwined with his admiration for earlier scholars like Aristotle and Theophrastus, solidified his commitment to documenting and classifying the natural phenomena around him amidst the turbulent socio-political landscape of the Roman Empire. Plinys "Natural History" is not merely an encyclopedia but an invitation to engage with the intricacies of the natural world. Readers of all backgroundsfrom scholars to laypersonswill find this work both enlightening and accessible, offering a timeless perspective on humanitys enduring relationship with nature. It is a crucial text for anyone seeking to understand the foundations of scientific thought and the legacy of classical learning.

Adventures in Contentment is a story by David Grayson. A man weary of the meaningless hustle and bustle of the city relocates to the countryside. He finds a new world and, in himself, a novel man.

El Perro de Newton muestra que las ciencias y las humanidades no solo no se excluyen mutuamente, sino que pueden -y deben- ir de la mano a la hora de explorar «el insospechado océano de nuestra ignor

Cuanto más sabemos de los hongos, menos sentido tiene nada sin ellos.Edición ilustrada con más de 100 fotografías que muestran la espectacular variedad y la extraña belleza de los hongos.No son plantas ni animales y se encuentran en la tierra, en el aire y en nuestros cuerpos. Estan por doquier, pero cuesta verlos. Ademas, pueden ser microscopicos, pero tambien representan a los organismos de mayor tamaño jamas registrados. Comen piedra, crean suelos, asimilan agentes contaminantes, se nutren de plantas, pero tambien las matan, sobreviven en el espacio e influyen en la composicion de la atmosfera terrestre.Ha llegado la hora de descubrir el oculto y fascinante mundo de los hongos, formas de vida extrañas y maravillosas que nos obligan a repensar el funcionamiento de la vida. Al proporcionar a los humanos pan, alcohol y medicamentos, han cambiado la historia de nuestra especie, mientras que su capacidad para digerir plastico, explosivos, pesticidas y petroleo crudo se aplica en el campo de las nuevas tecnologias.Su capacidad para conectar plantas en grandes redes de colaboracion subterraneas, la Wood Wide Web, esta transformando nuestra comprension de los ecosistemas. Los hongos tienen la llave para entender nuestro planeta y nuestras formas de pensar, sentir y comportarnos, aunque su vida transcurra principalmente fuera de nuestra vista.

Una nueva teoría revolucionaria y un llamamiento a la acción sobre los derechos de los animales, la ética y la legislación de mano de la célebre filósofa Martha C. Nussbaum.Los animales viven en riesgo en todo el mundo. Ya sea por la crueldad de la industria carnica, la caza furtiva, la destruccion del habitat o el abandono de los animales de compañia que la gente dice amar, somos culpables de las injusticias y los horrores que sufren los animales todos los dias.El mundo necesita un despertar etico, un movimiento de concienciacion de proporciones internacionales y, en Justicia para los animales, una de las filosofas y humanistas mas influyentes del mundo, Martha C. Nussbaum, nos ofrece un enfoque revolucionario del derecho, la etica y los derechos de los animales.Desde delfines hasta cuervos, de elefantes a pulpos, Nussbaum examina todo el reino animal, descubriendonos la vida de los animales con asombro, admiracion y compasion para entender como podemos crear un mundo en el que los seres humanos no seamos ni explotadores ni usufructuarios de los animales, sino sus amigos. Todos los animales deberian tener la oportunidad de prosperar a su manera. Los humanos tenemos el deber colectivo de afrontar y solucionar el daño que les hemos ocasionado.Justicia para los animales es una llamada urgente a la accion y un manual para el cambio. En esta revolucionaria obra, Nussbaum nos enseña como podemos encauzar la politica y la legislacion para ayudarnos a cumplir nuestras responsabilidades eticas.

Quando um grande segredo vem à tona, Camille se vê diante de um turbilhão de acontecimentos. É obrigada a abandonar suas longas manhãs passadas no lago, onde trocava confidências com seu amigo Wil, e

Em 1953, o mundo testemunhou duas revoluções tecnológicas: a criação dos computadores de programa armazenado e a fascinante descoberta de como a vida guarda suas instruções no DNA. Nesse mesmo cenári

APRECIAÇÃO Tânia Mara Um místico de menina em forma de mulher... Faz-se menina, quando empresta a seus personagens o toque mágico da vida, fazendo com que seus leitores embarquem em sua imaginação pe

BIOLOGIA NATURAL E UM LIVRO DO MUNDO NA CONDIÇÃO DE COISA NATURAL DO MUNDO BOA LEITURA QUE DEUS ABENÇOA LITERATURA BRASILEIRA BOA LEITURA

El evolucionismo sigue evolucionando. Este libro cuenta con un lenguaje claro y muchos ejemplos, como lo que sabemos del cambio de vida en la tierra sigue siendo poco. Pero lo poco que sabemos debe hacernos humildes al no sacar conclusiones radicales, sino tambien abiertas a las novedades encontradas por la ciencia. Y la mayor novedad es que la colaboracion entre las especies tiene un peso al menos igual que la lucha entre ellas, para explicar la evolucion de la vida. El neodarwinismo, que vino ideologicamente despues de las ideas claras de Darwin, quiere pensar que prevalece lo mas adecuado, y en esto parece querer justificar varias formas de supremacia y colonialismo. Inconscientemente, esto esta representado por el clasico simbolo iconografico en el que se ve el mono y del mono nace el mono mas grande, y del mono mas grande el Nehanderthal, y al fin el hombre ... pero siempre es y solo blanco y varon; casi para representar con estas caracteristicas el sumo nivel de evolucion. En cambio, hoy descubrimos que las especies hablan y se confunden entre si; que el arbol de la vida tiene ramas que se separan, y que se fusionan, se enredan y se separan nuevamente; que el entorno afecta como habla el ADN. Y sabemos que el secreto de la vida es la colaboracion y la solidaridad. Dos academicos, un medico y una filosofa, ambos bioeticos de renombre, explican aqui en detalle este proceso. Es un libro que deberia llevarse a las escuelas y a las universidades para reabrir un debate que la costumbre y la pereza han mantenido firme durante decadas.

In "A Cotswold Village; Or, Country Life and Pursuits in Gloucestershire," J. Arthur Gibbs offers a richly detailed portrait of rural life in the picturesque Cotswold region. Through a blend of engaging narrative and keen observation, Gibbs captures the rhythms of village existence, exploring the customs, traditions, and daily pursuits of its inhabitants. Written in a vivid, descriptive style, the book immerses readers in the pastoral beauty and socio-cultural fabric of Gloucestershire, reflecting both the majesty of nature and the poignant simplicity of country living during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. J. Arthur Gibbs was not only a writer but also a keen observer of the English countryside. His background as a naturalist and local historian provided him the insights needed to authentically depict the nuances of village life. Immersed in the Cotswold landscape, Gibbs drew inspiration from his surroundings, capturing the unique character of the community and its people, which was deeply personal and reflective of his own experiences living in the region. "A Cotswold Village" is a must-read for those captivated by rural England and its timeless charm. Scholars, historians, and casual readers alike will appreciate Gibbs eloquent prose and deep understanding of country life, making this work a valuable addition to both literary and cultural studies focused on rural societal structures.

In "Footing it in Franconia," Bradford Torrey offers readers an evocative collection of reflections on his meandering walks through the picturesque landscapes of New HampshireAos Franconia region. Through an engaging blend of descriptive prose and keen observations, Torrey captures the natural beauty and intricate details of his surroundings, reflecting on both the external world and his internal contemplations. The book is emblematic of the 19th-century nature writing genre, echoing the works of contemporaries like John Burroughs, and is underpinned by an appreciation for both the sublime and the mundane in nature. Bradford Torrey, an esteemed American ornithologist and naturalist, devoted much of his life to studying and appreciating birds and the ecosystems they inhabit. His background in natural history likely inspired the keen observations found throughout this book, as he intertwines his love for ornithology with a profound reverence for the wilderness. Torreys experiences and reflections encourage readers to engage with their surroundings, advocating for a deeper connection to the natural world. "Footing it in Franconia" is a must-read for anyone with a passion for nature, offering an intimate glimpse into the beauty of New EnglandAos landscapes. TorreyAos insightful prose invites readers to pause and reflect, making this book a timeless companion for both casual hikers and ardent nature enthusiasts alike.

Terco, estúpido y caprichoso: las cualidades atribuidas al burro son poco halagadoras. Sin embargo, casi ningún otro animal juega un papel tan importante en la historia cultural como el burro: representa a la criatura maltratada; cabalgando sobre el, Jesus entro en Jerusalen; el asno de Buridan se convirtio en paradigma filosofico porque se murio de hambre frente a dos montones de heno entre los que no podia elegir. JuttaPerson cuenta la historia asombrosamente rica de esta bestia de carga, ofrece una caracterizacion del burro, nos presenta a sus criadores e introduce especies de burros domesticos y salvajes, asi como tambien la mula. Por ultimo, demuestra que este animal de hermosos ojos, supuestamente tonto, posee una inteligencia de la que tenemos mucho que aprender.

Dava Sobel narra la historia del científico y relojero escocés John Harrison, un genio solitario cuyos logros fueron rechazados por la élite científica de su tiempo, pero que consiguió resolver un problema aparentemente imposible: descubrir un metodo que permitiera a los marineros determinar la longitud exacta de su posicion en el mar. No se trataba de ninguna curiosidad excentrica: antes de descubrir la longitud, los barcos solian desviarse tanto de su rumbo que los marineros morian de inanicion o de escorbuto antes de haber alcanzado ningun puerto. Necesitaban mucha suerte para llegar a su destino, ya que ninguna nave contaba con metodos fiables para establecer su posicion en alta mar. Millares de vidas humanas, la expansion politico-economica y las crecientes fortunas de las naciones que flotaban en los oceanos dependian de este hallazgo. En 1714, el gobierno ingles convoco un concurso y ofrecio una elevada recompensa para aquel que lograra desarrollar un metodo capaz de determinar la longitud exacta. El reto de resolver el legendario dilema lo aceptaron cientificos de la talla de Galileo, Newton o Halley. Harrison trabajo durante mas de cuarenta años para fabricar un cronometro perfectoy al fin lo logro. Longitud es el dramatico relato sobre el empeño de un hombre por construir un medidor temporal a la vez que una fascinante historia de la astronomia, la navegacion y el arte de fabricar relojes.